Paris Saint-Gemain and Brazil striker, Neymar da Silva Santos Junior has been forced out of the 2019 Copa America.  He was carried off in tears after suffering a foot injury in Brazil’s friendly international against Ecuador on Wednesday night.

The former Barcelona forward had to have his right ankle wrapped in ice as he was carried down the tunnel after just 20 minutes of the pre-tournament friendly.

Neymar was seen crouched on the pitch just moments before going off and did not appear to have suffered the injury through any hard contact. It was later confirmed that the 27–year-old had damaged an ankle ligament.

The injury occurred immediately after Everton star, Richarlison scored the opening goal for Brazil via a towering header in the 16th minute of the match played in Qatar, the 2022 World Cup hosts.

Soon after the ball hit the net and while his team-mates were celebrating, Neymar walked to the tunnel and was immediately seen to by medical staff after which he was substituted by Everton.

The 12-team Copa America competition will be hosted by Brazil from Friday, June 14 to Sunday, July 7.