A new viral video has circulated online which might bring back some old memories for football fans. Vasco da Gama captain Thiago Mendes refused to shake hands with Neymar before their Brazilian Serie A clash on Sunday evening, reigniting a six-year rivalry between the two players.
The incident occurred during the traditional pre-match handshake line at Sao Januario. Neymar, captaining Santos, extended his hand to Mendes, who walked past without acknowledging it. The pair also avoided shaking hands while exchanging pennants after the coin toss. Footage of the moment quickly circulated online, and the users are divided.
Watch: Thiago Mendes snubs Neymar’s handshake as old feud reignites
The tension dates back to 2020, when Mendes, then playing for Lyon, was sent off for a heavy challenge on Neymar, who played for Paris Saint-Germain, that left the forward with a sprained ankle.
The pair clashed again earlier this year in a previous Brazilian league meeting. Despite the frosty exchange, Santos secured a comfortable 3-0 victory, helping them climb away from the lower reaches of the table. The snub has drawn widespread attention on social media, with fans debating whether Mendes’s gesture was justified or simply poor sportsmanship.
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