Internet revives cat-curse theory after Brazil’s World Cup last 16 exit | OneFootball

Social media users have revived a wild cat-curse theory to explain Brazil’s World Cup last 16 exit.

According to Le Progres, the idea resurfaced hours after Brazil lost 2-1 to Norway on Sunday.

Its origin lies at Qatar 2022, when a cat climbed onto the table during Vinicius Jr’s pre-quarter-final press conference. While the Real Madrid forward kept taking questions, a staff member grabbed the cat by the scruff and set it down roughly. Animal welfare groups condemned the gesture.

That moment sparked claims of a curse on Neymar and his team-mates. Days later, Brazil went out to Croatia on penalties. Further stumbles followed, including a 2024 Copa America quarter-final exit and a perceived loss of aura.

Some users insist the only fix is to find the cat and apologise, otherwise setbacks will keep coming. In reality, football reasons, such as the revolving door of head coaches, can explain a defeat that did not shock specialists.

Source: Le Progres