Neymar unleashes fury on Copa America chiefs after Jesus decision ahead of final

Neymar has blasted Copa America organisers after they banned his Brazil teammate Gabriel Jesus for the Copa America final.

Manchester City striker Jesus was shown a straight red card for a horrendous flying kick on Eugenio Mena in the 1-0 quarter-final victory over Chile.

The 24-year-old expressed his regret at the tackle after the match and apologised to his teammates after they were left with almost the entire second half to play with 10 men.

Jesus played no part in the 1-0 win over Peru in the semi-finals and was subsequently handed a two-game ban by governing body CONMEBOL, which was met with a furious reaction by him and Neymar.

"It is very sad to be in the hands of people who make these kinds of decisions," said the Paris Saint-Germain superstar, before sarcastically adding: "They made a beautiful analysis of the play. We must congratulate them."

Jesus vented his fury with the decision on his own Instagram story, writing: "Two-match ban and no appeal? Congratulations CONMEBOL. I think you didn't see what happened right."

Jesus was also sent off against Peru during the 2019 Copa America final, having already contributed a goal and an assist as Brazil won the trophy on home soil.

Speaking to reporters after his awful tackle in Saturday's quarter-final, Jesus said: "Unfortunately I made a mistake in which the team could have suffered, but this group once again showed strength.

"I apologise to my teammates and I will always continue to try to learn from my mistakes. I'm relieved to hear that Mena is fine and we've already talked about it."

He added: "Nothing lasts forever, neither pains nor joys. Everything in life is learning. Everything in life surpasses itself."

Jesus also received a $5,000 (£3,6000) fine from CONMEBOL.

Will Brazil struggle against Argentina in Jesus' absence? Comment below.

In his absence, Everton forward Richarlison started up front against Peru and he could keep his place for the final against Argentina.

Lionel Messi's side booked their place in the Maracana showdown by defeating Colombia on penalties in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Ahead of the match, Neymar outlined his desire to face off with his close friend and former Barcelona teammate in the final.

"I want Argentina, I am cheering them on," he said. "I have friends there and in the final Brazil will win."

And after reaching the final, Messi said: "Brazil with Neymar is going to be very tough. We know their potential and what Ney can do individually.

"What I want most is to win something with the national team. I always try to leave everything playing for the national team, to give my all. I always fight to win the cup.

"Whether we have won or lost we have always progressed deep in the Copa America and now once again too, and this group deserve it."