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via Reuters

via Reuters

Brazil is currently under a state of emergency. Widespread flooding, triggered by heavy rainfall, has claimed nearly 100 lives and displaced close to 200,000 individuals from their homes, affecting over 1 million people in the region, per authorities and various reports. In a remarkable act of kindness during this time of distress, Brazilian soccer star Neymar has stepped up to aid his homeland, deploying a personal helicopter to rescue a victim from the devastating floods. 

This came via a video shared on social media platform X, showcasing the rescue team carrying the affected individual in his black-colored helicopter, with njr and PP-NJR written on parts of the flying vehicle. The person was rescued after he somehow ended up stranded in Rio Grande do Sul. Notably, aside from sending his helicopter, the Al Hilal star earlier sent his private jet to his home country with supplies. 

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Apart from posting pictures of his airplane transporting food aid to Brazil, he wrote a big message, urging people to donate. “I don’t like and don’t like to post everything I do or help, because who does it .. do it from the heart, not from the commitment. So, this post is to encourage more people to help,” wrote the 32-year-old. While thanking his team and everyone involved, he concluded, “I’m here from afar praying that everything goes back to normal… My father is taking care of me and giving all the help possible.”

Even though Neymar is miles away, recovering from his season-ending injury in Saudi Arabia, the former Barcelona star left no stone unturned to extend a helping hand. In fact, he isn’t the only good samaritan to help his beloved country. 

Former rival of Neymar Jr. also lends a helping hand to Brazil 

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Diego Costa also rose to the occasion and gave Brazil a shoulder to lean on. The former Atletico Madrid player was returning home from training when he encountered a group of individuals from Eldorado do Sul seeking assistance. Without hesitation, the experienced striker inquired about how he could help. Upon learning that several individuals were stranded due to the floods and in need of rescue, the 35-year-old swiftly offered his jeep and jet ski for the mission. 

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Additionally, Costa enlisted the support of four friends who provided their own jet skis to bolster the rescue efforts. Social media footage captured the player navigating through flooded roads, and reports suggest that the collaborative endeavor resulted in the successful evacuation of approximately 100 people. Interestingly, after concluding his European career with Wolves, the former Chelsea player joined Botafogo in Brazil last year before recently switching to Gremio.

Be that as it may, it is indeed a heartwarming gesture from both Neymar and Diego Costa in such a distressing time of need. We extend our heartfelt prayers for Brazil and hope that everything returns to normal soon!