Neymar ended his goal drought for Santos with a delightful penalty in their 3-1 victory over Água Santa on Sunday, February 16, 2025.
The 33-year-old superstar found the net in the 14th minute of the São Paulo State Championship match, providing a much-needed confidence boost after a challenging return to Brazilian football.
Since making his official comeback in October 2024, the former Barcelona star has been gradually working his way back to full fitness, having yet to complete a full 90 minutes for Santos.
After a slow start in his first three games, he showed signs of improvement on Sunday. The star forward is steadily regaining his form after a year-long absence due to a knee injury.
He showcased glimpses of his old brilliance when he picked up the ball, made a darting run into the box, and won a penalty after being brought down.
Neymar stepped up to take the spot-kick and, after a slight stutter in his run-up, coolly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, putting the 2016 Brazilian champions on the path to victory.
Thaciano doubled the lead in the 26th minute before Neymar set up Guilherme to seal a 3-1 win.
The victory lifts Santos to seventh place in the league standings, with 12 points from 10 games, and marks their first win in four matches.
Watch the highlight of the goal below:
GOOOOL DO NEYMAR JR!!! 👑⚪️
HIS FIRST GOAL IN OVER A YEAR! HIS FIRST GOAL FOR SANTOS IN HIS RETURN! pic.twitter.com/YLQWaNKj9L
— Ginga Bonito 🇧🇷 (@GingaBonitoHub) February 16, 2025
Meanwhile watch this explainer on the dismissal of the No. 12 corruption case after Anas refused to testify without mask
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