Newcastle star duo criticised on international duty

One of the greatest joys in a footballer’s career is to represent your international team, however for some of the Newcastle stars that joy has quickly turned into criticism.

These midfield stars have made significant progress at St James’ Park and now regularly feature in the renowned yellow and green shirt. Their recent participation in one of football’s greatest rivalries during their trip to South America has come with its challenges.

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Newcastle stars criticised on international duty

GloboEsporte, a prominent Brazilian sports paper, has published ratings for their performance in the Argentina defeat, and the Brazilian public has expressed their agreement with some even going further by offering additional criticism.

Joelinton is the one bearing the brunt of that upset after being substituted into the game and only lasting ten minutes before receiving his marching orders. This is despite the punishment being called harsh after he was shown a straight red card for a push on Argentina’s Rodrigo De Paul.

The media outlet called the incident ‘a lack of emotional balance’ despite the Argentine rolling around as he had just been contacted by a heavyweight boxer’s right hand.

Joelinton received a rating of 2.0, and a lower rating was given by the Brazilian public. In contrast, Bruno Guimarães received a rating of 4.5 but also received a lower rating from viewers in various regions of Brazil.

Much of the criticism directed towards Bruno focused on his incorrect throw that led to Argentina’s corner kick and subsequent goal, resulting in Brazil’s defeat and Argentina’s celebration in their rival’s home stadium.

A goal that saw Brazil defeated and Argentina celebrate in their rival’s home. This is despite the game being marred by violence which saw rival fans confront each other during the national anthems, before the armed police attacked a section of the La Albiceleste fans.

The Brazilian team will be looking for a revival in their qualification quest and may rely on the World Cup expansion in 2026, where six teams will automatically qualify for the tournament in North America.

Now, the two Brazilians will be coming back to their adopted home Newcastle and the Toon Army will be hoping for an uptick in fortunes when coming up against Chelsea at the weekend.