Analysis-Soccer-European curse stings Brazil again at World Cup

Brazilian fans react during the FIFA World Cup 2022 match between Brazil and Croatia, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil December 9, 2022. REUTERS/Pilar Olivares

AL RAYYAN, Qatar (Reuters) - Brazil are going home empty handed after they suffered yet another heartbreaking World Cup exit to a European rival -- and the quarter-final defeat by Croatia will hurt as they let victory slip through their fingers just three minutes from the final whistle.

When Neymar put the South Americans ahead with a spectacular effort in the first half of extra time, Brazilian fans all over the world were left rejoicing.