Neymar has struggled with physical issues and wasn’t always available for Santos in their battle to avoid relegation, but he stepped up at the crucial moment, scoring all the goals in Santos’ 3-0 win over Juventude at Alfredo Jaconi on Wednesday.
With 44 points, Santos climbed to 14th place in Serie A. They are one point ahead of Ceara and Fortaleza, and two clear of Vitoria, who currently occupy the final relegation spot in 17th.
Santos will wrap up their campaign on Sunday at home against Cruzeiro. Thanks to their superior goal difference (-8 vs -18), a draw should be enough to avoid relegation.
Juventude, second from bottom with 34 points, will say goodbye to Serie A away to Corinthians.
Neymar delivers
Neymar’s ability to decide games was especially vital, as the match proved tough for Santos despite facing an opponent already relegated.
The visitors managed just one shot in the first half hour and had to hold their breath while VAR reviewed Gabriel Taliari’s goal, which was eventually ruled out for offside.
Neymar showed he was switched on, nearly scoring from midfield by taking advantage of Juventude goalkeeper Jandrei’s advanced position.
Things improved a bit for the visitors towards the end of the first half, and shortly after the break, the game opened up.
Neymar’s first two goals came largely thanks to his movement. For the opener, he played the ball out left to Guilherme and sprinted into the box to finish first time.
For the second, he joined the counter-attack led by Igor Vinicius, broke behind the defence, and finished with his left foot. He also kept his cool to convert the penalty won by Lautaro Diaz.
With seven minutes left, Neymar was replaced by Thaciano and left the pitch to a standing ovation.
