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The Barcelona star went into the game haunted by the agony of two years ago, where Brazil were thumped 7-1 by Germany in the semi-finals of the World Cup on home soil.
He was absent from that clash having been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after suffering a broken back against Colombia, but shone against the same opposition at the Maracana.
Neymar's curling free-kick put the hosts in front, before he then scored the winning penalty in the shootout to secure Brazil's 18th medal of the games.
Speaking afterwards, the 24-year-old admitted his relief at banishing the nation's demons and playing a starring role in the process.
"This is one of the best things that have happened in my life. That's it," Neymar said.
"Now my critics will have to shut up.
See photos:
He was absent from that clash having been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after suffering a broken back against Colombia, but shone against the same opposition at the Maracana.
Neymar's curling free-kick put the hosts in front, before he then scored the winning penalty in the shootout to secure Brazil's 18th medal of the games.
Speaking afterwards, the 24-year-old admitted his relief at banishing the nation's demons and playing a starring role in the process.
"This is one of the best things that have happened in my life. That's it," Neymar said.
"Now my critics will have to shut up.
See photos: