Thiago Mendes denies Neymar the handshake, reigniting their old dispute in Brazil

A tense moment unfolded before the Brazilian Brasileirao match between Vasco da Gama and Santos when Thiago Mendes appeared to twice deny Neymar a handshake. The incident occurred during the pre-game protocol as players exchanged team pennants and later during the customary player greetings.

This snub has reignited a long-standing feud between the two Brazilian footballers. Their rivalry dates back to December 2020, when Mendes, then playing for Olympique Lyon, made a tackle that resulted in a serious ankle injury for Neymar, who was with Paris Saint-Germain. Neymar had to be stretchered off the field during that match.

The animosity resurfaced in February when Santos defeated Vasco da Gama. Neymar celebrated a goal with a "silence" gesture directed at the visiting fans and subsequently argued with Mendes. Neymar publicly called Mendes a "babaca" (fool) and referenced the past injury incident.

Mendes defended his reaction at the time, stating that Neymar had disrespected Vasco's supporters. Now, nearly six months after their last public confrontation, Mendes has once again signaled his displeasure by refusing to acknowledge Neymar's outstretched hand, underscoring the ongoing friction between them.

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