SALVADOR, Brazil (AP) — Leave him alone.
Brazil coach Rogerio Micale has leapt to the defense of misfiring star striker Neymar before the decisive game against Denmark at the Olympic football tournament on Wednesday.
With Brazil facing another embarrassing elimination at home, Neymar has come under fire for his poor performances and lack of leadership, but Micale said he deserved respect.
Brazil needs a victory to keep alive its hopes of gold - or even any medal.
"Neymar will become the best player in the world, we need to respect him," Micale said. "He is young.