The now former Brazil manager, Tite, has explained why Neymar did not take a penalty during their shoot-out defeat to Croatia in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals.

Neymar’s record-equalling goal seemed to have won it for the Selecao but Bruno Petkovic’s equalizer in the 117th minute sent the game to extra time.

There were no goals in the extra time and as a result, the match had to be decided via penalties.

However, Neymar who is Brazil’s first-choice taker didn’t step up to the spot, as Rodrygo and Marquinhos failed to score.

Croatia went on to win 4-2 and qualify for the semi-final.

World Cup 2022: Brazil Manager, Tite Reveals Why Neymar Did Not Take Penalty!

Many assumed that Neymar was planning on taking the fifth, and usually decisive penalty, a fact Tite confirmed post-match.

“He is the fifth and decisive penalty taker.

“The player who has more quality and the mentality to step up then is under the greatest pressure,” Tite said.