Neymar Jr could potentially not appear in the 2019-2020 Champions League final because he was caught exchanging shirts after Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) won over RB Leipzig in the semifinals of the tournament.
The Brazilian star violated UEFA protocol which prohibits players from exchanging jersey after matches due to the corona virus pandemic. Neymar was caught on camera exchanging jersey with Marcel Halstenberg after PSG won 3-0 at the Da Luz Stadium, Lisbon, on Wednesday (19/8/2020).
Citing the Mirror, UEFA protocol rules issued earlier this month stated, “Players are advised to refrain from exchanging their shirts.”
The regulation also states that the European Football Federation sanctions players who do not follow the rules. “May lead to disciplinary action in accordance with the UEFA Disciplinary Rules.”
At the top of the Champions League, PSG will face the winner between Bayern Munich or Olympique Lyon who will compete on Thursday, August 20, 2020. The Champions League final will be held on Monday, August 24, 2020.
Rio Ferdinand, who became the match commentator, was surprised by the attitude of Neymar, who exchanged jerseys with the RB Leipzig player.
“At first, I thought he didn’t mean that, then I saw the reruns and wow,” he said, quoting the Mirror.
If Neymar is completely banned from playing in the Champions League final, PSG coach Thomas Tuchel could play Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.
The Cameroon striker became the hero of his team when he scored the winner in the quarter-finals against Atalanta just before the match ended. The match at that time ended with a score of 2-1. Even though he didn’t score a goal, Neymar played well when PSG beat their German opponent, RB Leipzig. Two shots of the 28-year-old player hit the post twice in the first half.
Les Parisiens’ first goal opened in the 13th minute, through a cross from Angel Di Maria in a free kick situation. Then, the ball was put to good use by Marquinhos with a header in the 13th minute.
PSG added to the lead after taking advantage of an error by RB Leipzig goalkeeper, Peter Gulacsi, who gave a bad pass to the midfield. Neymar then gave Di Maria a sweet pass to score in the 42nd minute.
Di Maria was again the architect for PSG’s third goal. He provides a pass which ends with a header by Bernat in the 56th minute.
