Neymar Scores Twice on Comeback as Santos Fight Back to Draw 2-2 with Flamengo

Neymar Jr. made a stunning return from injury, scoring twice from the penalty spot to rescue Santos from a two-goal deficit in a 2-2 draw against league leaders Flamengo.

The Brazilian star returned after nearly five weeks out and immediately made a decisive impact for Santos in the 29th round of the Brazilian league.

The match was played at Santos’ home ground, Vila Belmiro, early on October 9 Bangladesh time.

Flamengo dominated the first half and took the lead in the 43rd minute through Danilo. Lucas Paqueta then doubled the advantage in stoppage time, sending the visitors into halftime with a 2-0 lead.

The game changed after the break when Neymar came on for Santos.

The 33-year-old quickly became the centre of attention. In the 82nd minute, Neymar converted a penalty to reduce the deficit. Just six minutes later, he scored again from the spot to bring Santos level at 2-2.

Flamengo’s problems increased after the first penalty incident, with Giorgian de Arrascaeta shown a red card following a VAR review. Flamengo were therefore forced to finish the match with 10 men.

Santos pushed for a winner after completing the comeback. They came close when Gabriel Bontempo’s effort struck the crossbar, but the home side could not find a third goal.

The draw allowed Flamengo to retain top spot in the Brazilian league, while Santos secured a valuable point thanks largely to Neymar’s return and two-goal performance.

After the match, Neymar said facing Flamengo is always difficult. He described Santos and Flamengo as the two best teams in Brazil and said coming back from two goals down to earn a draw was important for his team.

Speaking about his return from injury, Neymar said he had to be careful with his body and avoid putting too much pressure on his right leg. He admitted he played more cautiously than usual in some situations but was delighted to return and help his team.

After nearly five weeks on the sidelines, Neymar’s two-goal comeback has provided a major boost for Santos and another encouraging sign for the Brazilian star.