Brazilian striker Neymar has hit out at South American football body CONMEBOL after confirming that Gabriel Jesus was ruled out of the Copa America final against Argentina after he was forced to miss his team's 1-0 quarter-final win over Chile. A red card was found during
CONMEBOL said in a statement on Tuesday that it suspended Jesus for two matches. The striker did not play in Brazil's 1-0 semi-final win against Peru on Monday, being replaced by winger Everton.
Jesus was sent off shortly before the second half of Brazil's victory against Chile after hitting Eugenio Mena with a flying kick. The Brazilian said it was an accident and apologized.
Neymar said of the incident on Instagram, "It is very sad to be in the hands of people making such decisions."
CONMEBOL also fined Jesus $5,000. Brazil cannot appeal the decision. Jesus said on Instagram that he does not agree with the decision.
"Two match ban and no appeal? Congratulations CONMEBOL. I guess you didn't see what happened," he wrote.
Neymar also posted on Instagram to support his teammate.
The final of the Copa America will be played at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday.
Two years ago, Jesus scored a goal and helped Brazil's 3–1 win in the Copa America final against Peru, but he too was sent off after a hard tackle. He is the only player to have got a red card twice under Coach Tite.