James Rodriguez Instgaram: Real Madrid Star Thanks Fans for Inspiration, Says He Tried to Calm Down Neymar [Watch]
James Rodriguez is thanking fans for the part they have played in Colombia's success in Copa America.
A photo posted by James Rodríguez (@jamesrodriguez10) on Jun 18, 2015 at 3:40pm PDT
On his Instagram account, Rodriguez posted a picture praising fans.
"Happiness is the strength that makes us fight for our dreams!" he said.
It has also been reported that Rodriguez tried to keep the peace at a recent game, but it did not work.
According to Goal, the Real Madrid attack midfielder said he attempted to calm Neymar by telling him to hold on to "the talent God gave him."
It didnt work as a mass brawl followed, and the Barcelona superstar was subsequently dismissed, along with Colombia's Carlos Bacca. The brawl started when Neymar drove the ball into opposition full-back Pablo Armero after the final whistle before appearing to attempt to headbutt at Jeison Murillo, who tried to intervene.
"At the end of the match I told Neymar to stay calm. I also went through that four days ago when we lost to Venezuela. That day I felt really angry," he said.
Neymar received a red card, and he was expected to miss a couple of games. But on Thursday, it was annouced that the sentence would likely be reduced by CONMEBOL from two games to one, according to ESPN FC.
The board will make a final decision on Friday.
Rodriguez, who is playing for the Colombia national team for Copa America, had a stellar season with Real Madrid. He played in 29 games with 13 goals, 13 assist on 53 shots. In the 2014 World Cup, James inspired his Colombian teammates to the quarterfinal stages. He scored six goals and provided two assists across the tournament and was nominated for the Golden Ball award. He is considered to be one of the best Colombian soccer player in the game.
The full brawl can be seen below.
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