Although Santos fell to a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Mirassol in the Brasileiro Serie A on Saturday night, Neymar managed to get through 90 minutes for the second time in just four days – having scored a late winner against Flamengo on Wednesday evening.
It was the first time the Brazilian star had played back-to-back 90 minutes since October 2023 – doing so for Al Hilal in the first game, and Brazil in the second game. Even that had a nine or so day break between the games.
He had played another 90 minutes for Al Hilal before that too, so those two games on the 29th September and 3rd October 2023 was the last time he had played two full games within a week. Just two weeks later came the brutal ACL injury vs Uruguay. So, playing back-to-back 90 minutes now is very encouraging.
Although his performance was not the best against Mirassol, the 33-year old still created a big chance for Alvaro Barreal, drew four fouls, won 5/8 ground duels, had 63 touches, and took two shots – including a free kick that was just a whisker away.
With the intense schedule of Brazilian football, the games are coming thick and fast for Santos, even without any Copa Libertadores or CONMEBOL Sudamericana commitments. So much so you do wince in fear that at one point it will be one game too many for Neymar.
As they look to bounce back from the disappointment of tonight, attention will soon quickly turn to Wednesday evening, when they host Internacional. It will be interesting to see whether or not he will make a third start in the space of one week.
It really cannot be stressed enough how much better football is with a fit and in form Neymar. Even now, there are few better than the Brazilian when he is at his best. The ideal now is for him to get through this run of games, and be available for The Seleção in the autumn.
