20 Jun 2015

Neymar out of Copa

2:48 pm on 20 June 2015

Brazil's Neymar has been banned for four matches after being sent off at the Copa America and will play no further part in the tournament.

Brazil's forward Neymar celebrates his goal.

Brazil's forward Neymar celebrates his goal. Photo: AFP

The striker was dismissed at the end of Brazil's defeat by Colombia for his part in a fracas after the final whistle.

The FIFA association responsible for the Copa, CONMEBOL, said in a statement it had suspended Neymar "as a consequence of his dismissal and incidents after" the match at Santiago's Monumental Stadium.

Chilean referee Enrique Osses said in his report of the match that Neymar had waited for him in the tunnel and insulted him as he headed for the dressing rooms.

CONMEBOL, which also fined the player US$10,000, said Brazil had the right to appeal.

The South Americans have one remaining group match, against Venezuela and could then face three knockout matches if they reach the final.

Neymar was central to the fracas at Monumental Stadium two days ago.

After the final whistle he kicked the ball hard at an opponent.

Colombia reacted angrily and almost every player on the pitch was involved in pushing and shoving.

Colombia's Carlos Bacca was also shown a red card and had been suspended for two matches, CONMEBOL said.

Neymar's absence will be a huge loss not just for Brazil but for the entire tournament.

Along with Argentina's Lionel Messi, he is the biggest name.

He inspired Brazil to victory over Peru in their first Copa game before being frustrated by the Colombians in a tetchy re-run of their World Cup quarter-final last year.