2018 World Cup: What players, coaches are saying

Brazil's forward Neymar celebrates at the end of the Russia 2018 World Cup round of 16 football match between Brazil and Mexico. Photo: AFP

As countries battle one another in the World Cup last 16 matches, below are some of the best quotes from players and coaches participating in the game:

“I feel it was a tragedy, but I have to accept the defeat as a fact, I feel devastated and very disappointed.”

— Japan coach Akira Nishino on the Blue Samurai’s crushing last-gasp loss to Belgium after going up 2-0 in the second half.

“To be fair, we were thinking it was like two years ago against Wales.”

— Belgium captain Eden Hazard admits memories of his squad’s shock Euro 2016 defeat to Wales haunted him when they were down against Japan.

“That was a test for the team and its character… We survived it, we have gone through and that is the most important thing.”

— Belgium coach Roberto Martinez after his side produced one of the great comebacks in World Cup history.

“Look, I think it’s more an attempt to undermine me than anything else… I don’t care much for criticism, or praise, because this can influence your attitude.”

— Neymar after being widely criticised for writhing in agony on the turf, then getting on his feet and sprinting off soon afterwards, during Brazil’s 2-0 win against Mexico.

“I think it’s a shame for football… This is a very bad example for the world and the world of football.”

— Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio on a certain Brazilian player — whom he did not name — wasting time.

“I think we’ve been in this position before many times over the last however many years.”

— England manager Gareth Southgate on his country’s dreadful recent record in the knockout stage of major tournaments. 

“More alone than a lone madmen. The exit is that way.”

— Argentina sports newspaper Ole leaves its readers in no doubt over their opinion of Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli following the team’s last 16 defeat to France.