Barcelona and Brazil forward Neymar, 23, has publicly voiced his discontent after being on the receiving end of some very hefty challenges in Sunday's 1-0 friendly victory over fellow South American side Chile - at The Emirates Stadium. He accused Chile of employing "UFC" tactics to stop him from weaving his dribbling magic and showcasing his skills for all to see; Hoffenheim midfielder Roberto Firmino's strike midway through the second-half sealed the slender win. 

Inter Milan defensive midfielder Gary Medel appeared to stamp on Neymar in a first-half incident, but managed to escape without a warning or any card from the referee, which was a real shock to the Brazilian himself. 

Neymar had this to say: "This wasn't a game of football, it's meant to be football not UFC. The referee is there to stop these things from happening, but there were four referees and none of them saw anything! It seems we have to suffer - I am a sufferer!" STAT: Neymar has been fouled 94 times in all competitions this campaign.

Medel meanwhile, rejected the protests, stating in response: "Tackles are normal in a game. Some players do theatre, others play football... it's a pity that not everyone gets on with the game.

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About the author
Mosope Ominiyi
Writer and editor - European football analyst, youth enthusiast. Email: [email protected]