India, Aug. 14 -- Neymar hit back at sections of the Santos support after being criticised during their Copa Sudamericana victory over Macara, telling unhappy fans that if they arrive at the stadium with a negative mindset, they are "better" off staying at home. The Brazilian star played a decisive role as Santos recovered from an early setback to beat the Ecuadorian side 2-1 in the first leg of their round-of-16 tie at Vila Belmiro on Friday. Neymar supplied both assists as the hosts overturned a 1-0 deficit, but the 34-year-old was left frustrated by the reaction from some supporters while his team were struggling.

Macara had stunned the home crowd by taking the lead inside four minutes through Franco Posse. The difficult opening added...