Brazil media fires back at Roy Keane criticism of dancing World Cup stars

TNT Sports, a media outlet from Brazil, has fired back at Roy Keane after the pundit criticised Brazil’s dancing during their 4-1 win over South Korea.

Working for ITV, the former Irish international’s comments came during the half-time break. At this point, Brazil were already 4-0 up.

In typically dry Roy Keane fashion, he quipped that he had “never seen so much dancing” and compared the Brazil celebrations to “watching Strictly”. He also labelled the Selecao’s first-half performance as “fantastic”. However, Keane was not so impressed with the manner of the celebrations.  

When Mark Pougatch asked if Brazil’s dancing is “mickey taking”, the Man United legend agreed.

“Yeah [it is],” said Keane, via ITV. “I don’t like this. I know Eni [Aluko] has made the point about culture and it’s to it. But I think that’s really disrespecting the opposition. It’s 4-0 and they’re doing it every time. I don’t mind the first kind of jig or whatever they’re doing – it’s the one after that.

“And then the manager getting involved with it. So no, I’m not happy with it. I don’t think it’s good at all.”

After his comments, many took to social media to share their thoughts on the matter. And, unsurprisingly, there were polarising opinions. Media in Brazil were definitely leaning towards disagreeing with Keane, airing their responses on Twitter.

National media defends Brazil stars from Roy Keane comments

TNT Sports addressed Roy Keane directly after his critique of their national team. The 2022 Selecao side are beloved in Brazil; many see this squad as their best chance to win the World Cup since 2002.

So, TNT’s Twitter admin gave an animated response, calling out Keane.

“Hello, Roy Keane!” read the Tweet in all caps. “Don’t like the dances? Bite your back! This here is Brazil!

“See if you can do something like that! Even Tite will dance here! Like it or not.”

These exuberant celebrations are part of Brazil’s identity. “Jogo Bonito”  is the mantra that their national team tries to emulate, and that includes what they do when they score, too. Unfortunately, it is not to everyone’s taste.

Head coach Tite shed light on his team’s personality when speaking after Monday’s game.

Tite labels dancing the “language” of young Brazilian stars

Tite himself got involved in the fun during the match, dancing along with the bench following Richarlison’s goal. He credited this to team spirit and a need to get along with his squad.

“They’re very young and I always try to adapt a little bit to their language,” said the Brazil coach, via ESPN. “They have a language, which is of dancing.

“You have to learn how to do the moves,” he added, regarding his involvement in the third goal dance. “And the moves are very tight. I have to be very careful [though]. There are people who are evil who will say that it was disrespectful.”

Brazil fans will hope to see more dancing (and thus more Roy Keane annoyance) when they play Croatia in the quarterfinals.

Featured image credit: Getty

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