Neymar gives up Brazil captaincy right after Olympic win

The Brazilian football hero striker made a surprising announcement after bringing home the first Olympic men's football gold medal for his country with his teammates.

Neymar was excited after winning the Olympic title with the Brazilian team. Photo: Reuters.

"I don't feel any pressure wearing the captain's armband, it's all made up by the media," Neymar told TV Globo. "But today, as a champion, I give up the armband. It was a joy and a pride to wear the armband, but today I give it back. Coach Tite needs to choose another captain."

Neymar was named Brazil's captain in September 2014 under former coach Dunga. He did not participate in the 2016 Copa America, but was given a break to play for the Olympic team - where he was captain. Brazil this year prioritized the tournament on home soil, as they had never won a gold medal in this tournament in their history.

In the final match against Germany yesterday, August 20 (local time), Neymar scored the opening goal with a beautiful free kick and then successfully converted the final penalty, bringing a 5-4 victory to the home team. Neymar burst into tears after touching history.

According to VNE