WATCH | Neymar impersonator dupes TV, security and fans at the World Cup

30 November 2022 - 14:22 By SITHEMBISO DINDI

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Neymar impersonator with a fan during the Fifa World Cup in Qatar.
Image: TWITTER

While one would think it easy to spot a global superstar such as Neymar a mile away that has been a challenge for US broadcaster Fox Soccer and some fans and security officials in Qatar.

Supporters and security staff have been duped by a Neymar impersonator at the World Cup who was so convincing he was escorted onto the field by officials after Brazil's 1-0 Group G win against Switzerland at Doha's Stadium 974 on Monday evening.

Lol that’s not Neymar
— RvnSzn  (@rvn_szn) November 27, 2022

Here is this guy 🤭🤭🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/EOqg9XKJtq
— La Torre (@TorresJanuary4) November 28, 2022

Fox Soccer posted on Twitter that Brazil's star player, who was ruled out of the group stage by an injury sustained in their opening 2-0 win against Serbia, was filmed walking in the city, saying: “Neymar was spotted walking around Doha.”

Fox explained later: “We got [conned] — Neymar has a very convincing doppelgänger.”

This imposter scammed all of us.
This is him at the Souq Waqif yesterday pic.twitter.com/v2n3iUJpP3
— man.like.kwame (@kosh_coucou) November 28, 2022

HSJAJSJJAA Este termina de titular titular acordate pic.twitter.com/xX1bG2rwGt
— Ernesto (@CheMadorni) November 29, 2022

In the footage and many posts on socials, the Neymar impersonator is seen walking about wearing a Brazil shirt, cap and sunglasses, being mobbed by supporters on the streets and in the stands in stadiums.

Many fans clamoured to take selfies with him.

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