Sunday, 5th April 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 16th March 2026, 9:14 AM
For Neymar, every match in a Santos jersey has become a stage to demonstrate his readiness for the national team ahead of the World Cup. Maintaining peak fitness is only part of the challenge; he must also deliver compelling performances on the pitch. It was with this aim that Neymar took to the field last night in the Brazilian league, facing Corinthians.
Despite providing the assist for Santos’ only goal, Neymar could not inspire a victory. The home side was held to a 1-1 draw, leaving Santos with only one win in six matches and sitting 13th in the league standings.
| Statistic | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shots | 3 | 2 from free-kicks, none converted |
| Passes | 29 | 9 passes unsuccessful |
| Assists | 1 | Assisted Santos’ only goal |
| Fouls suffered | 3 | Opponents’ tight marking evident |
| Fouls committed | 2 | Aggressive challenges in midfield |
| Dribbles | Multiple | Some over-dribbling wasted attacking chances |
The match highlighted Neymar’s struggles. Several over-ambitious dribbles interrupted attacking flow, while the opposition’s tight marking constrained his movement. With three fouls against him and two committed himself, Neymar experienced a challenging and ultimately subdued performance.
After the match, Neymar spoke about his prospects of returning to the national team. With the Brazil squad set to play friendly matches against France on 26 March and Croatia on 1 April, these fixtures are pivotal in final squad selection ahead of the World Cup. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti will announce the final squad in May, making the upcoming matches a critical opportunity for players like Neymar to prove themselves.
“I am working hard to return to the national team,” Neymar said. “I want to play in the World Cup, but the decision rests with the coaching staff. Whether I make it or not, I will always support the team.”
Notably, Ancelotti was absent from the stadium, with his assistants Mino Fulco and Francesco Mauri observing Neymar’s performance. Their evaluations may play a significant role in the final decision regarding his selection, although Neymar has already been included in the preliminary squad.
Brazil will face France first, followed by Croatia, as they approach the World Cup beginning on 11 June and concluding on 19 July. Neymar’s recent subdued form leaves questions hanging over his World Cup participation, placing him under intense scrutiny in the remaining friendlies.
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