However, Rivaldo could not take it lightly. Opposing Neymar's words, the 52-year-old legend wrote on Instagram, "I heard Neymar say that at the peak of his career, he would have played in my place at the 2002 World Cup. Honestly, I recognize his talent and skills and I also believe that he could have been in that team. But if he had played in my place, the story would have been different. With all due respect and admiration for him, I can say with 100% certainty that it would not have happened (the way it happened)."

Rivaldo, while explaining his uniqueness at the 2002 World Cup, said, "At that time, I was so focused, determined and hungry to win the World Cup that no one, no matter how good they were at the peak of their career, could take my place. I can say with confidence that those who were with me at that moment know how hard I fought to become a world champion."