Napoli have defended their Colombia full-back Juan Zuniga in response to criticism following Neymar's World Cup-ending injury. Brazil star striker Neymar was kneed in the back by Zuniga during their quarter-final on Friday and suffered a fractured vertebra that has ruled him out for the remainder of the tournament.
"Napoli are sorry for the accident that occurred that will prevent Neymar from playing in the semi-final against Germany.
"For the Brazilian champion we send our best wishes for a speedy recovery.
"At the same time, the club expresses its support for Zuniga , who has been subjected to fierce criticism and threats of all kinds, for a foul in play that was not malicious but unfortunate in its consequences.
"We note with relief that, in addition to the referee and his assistants, FIFA's disciplinary committee stated that there were no bad intentions on Zuniga's part."
