Sports Desk:
Neymar returned to scoring ways after four months, netting a stunning late goal to give Santos a 1-0 victory over Flamengo in the Brasileirao on Thursday (BST). The result lifted Santos to 13th place with 14 points, just two shy of the Copa Sudamericana spots.
After four home games without a win in the Copa Brasil and Brasileirao, Santos finally delivered for their fans with a hard-fought triumph against Flamengo, one of the favourites in Brasileirao.
The decisive moment came in the 84th minute when Neymar, who last scored in an official game on March 3 against Red Bull Bragantino, showcased his brilliance.
Receiving the ball near the penalty spot, the Mogi das Cruzes-born star produced a masterclass in control and composure—first swerving past one defender, then gliding past another before unleashing a low, powerful right-footed shot beyond the goalkeeper.
It was a classic striker’s finish from Neymar, who had recently scored a penalty in a friendly but had been waiting to break his competitive drought. Coming on late, his goal underlined his ability to influence games in a central attacking role.
The win was celebrated in style by Santos and their fans, marking a crucial step in their bid to climb the table. With Copa Libertadores qualification six points away, Neymar’s timely return to form could prove pivotal in the weeks ahead.