Neymar (34, Santos) scored multiple goals in his return match.
Santos beat Vasco da Gama 2-1 in the fourth round of the Brazilian league held on the 27th.
Starting the match, Neymar scored the opener in the 25th minute of the first half and added the winning goal in the second half to lead the team to victory. It was his first goals of 2026 and a multi-goal performance.
After the match, Neymar responded bluntly, seemingly conscious of the harsh criticism directed at him. He said, "Last week they said I was the worst player in the world, and today I scored two goals," and criticized the public, saying, "One day they say I retired, and the next day they say I have to go to the World Cup. That is football."
Neymar returned to the field recently after undergoing surgery in early 2026. This was his third appearance of the season and his second full game. He said, "I had cramps toward the end of the match, but it is part of the process. I am working to get into the best physical condition."
Whether Neymar can go to the World Cup is a matter of intense interest. Brazil national team coach Carlo Ancelotti has said he would consider selecting Neymar for the World Cup squad if Neymar regains full fitness. This performance strengthened the possibility of his return to the national team.
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