Boos and Jeers as South Africa’s Spirited Defense Upsets Brazil

Almost 69,000 fans at the Mane Garrincha Stadium in Brasilia booed and jeered as the South American side left the field. In a press conference, the Brazillian coach, Rogerio Micale said that “the support of the fans is very important” and it means his team will “be more focused in the future.”

The Brazillian team fielded the “Golden Trio” of their Captain, Neymar Jr. of Barcelona, Gabriel Jesus of Manchester City, and Gabriel Barbosa of Santos. Although the star-studded South American side controlled much of the game, they found trouble beating the seemingly impenetrable South African defense.

South Africa’s outstanding player of the match was Itumeleng Khune. The goalkeeper made a series of stunning saves. According to a Sport 24 article via, Khune was so impressed with his performance that he vowed to make sure his grandchildren watch how he stopped Neymar.

“I am so happy to make my appearance, make my mark. Definitely, my grandchildren will watch the DVD of this match,” he said.

The South Africans held on to a clean sheet despite losing Mothobi Mvala to a red card in the 60^th minute.

By all accounts, this is a good start for the South Africans. On the contrast, however, the Brazilians believe a “draw is a defeat” according to Neymar.

Next, South Africa will take on Denmark on Sunday.

Photo Courtesy: Ueslei Marcelino/ Reuters