On Monday evening, Santos hosted Juventude on match day 18 of the Brasileiro Serie A. for the final showdown of the game week.
For a fifth consecutive game, Neymar was fit enough to start the game, playing in his usual number ten role.
In a very end-to-end first half, where both teams created chances – Santos broke the deadlock after 37 minutes.
After an effort was parried back into the danger area, Neymar was most alert to slot a left footed effort into the back of the net. His 100th goal with his left foot in his career.
Three minutes later, Santos doubled their lead to make it 2-0. A Juventude goal in stoppage time meant it was all to play for at half-time.
The second half was more nervy, as the hosts tried to see out a much needed victory. With a little over 10 minutes left, they were awarded a penalty.
From there, Neymar stepped up to coolly place down the middle, for his second and Santos’ third of the game.
They were able to hold on from there, and secure an absolutely huge three points. This leaves them three points above the relegation zone, and three points off a Copa Sudamericana spot.
As for Neymar, this is the first time he has played five full straight games since August of 2022. It is also his first brace at club level since the same month.
Although Brazil have already qualified for the World Cup, there will be great hope that Neymar will be available to play in the qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia next month.
These games provide a great opportunity for him to get back into the swing of things for the national team, and play his first game under Carlo Ancelotti.
Neymar has not played for the national team since he suffered his ACL injury against Uruguay in October 2023. It is safe to say his absence has been felt in that time.
Despite this, he has still played 128 times for Brazil – only Cafu has played more times for the Selecao. His 79 goals are a national team record, too – no other active player is even in the top 10.
Furthermore, Neymar’s 59 assists for Brazil are not just a Selecao record, but in all of international football – including Lionel Messi.
So, safe to say that the 33-year old is a Brazil legend. They will be desperate to have him at their disposal for the World Cup next year. As a football fan, it is great to see him playing and scoring again.
