<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a> became the hero tonight, leading Santos with a hat-trick to a crucial road victory against Juventude to stay alive in the fight to avoid relegation to the second division of Brazilian soccer.



With this important triumph, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/santos">Santos</a> climbed to 14th place in the standings with 44 points, pulling clear of the relegation zone. In the final matchday, they will face Cruzeiro, where they will have a strong chance to remain in the top flight regardless of the result.



The former Barcelona forward appeared when his team needed him most, and his feat is even more valuable knowing he played the entire match dealing with a meniscus injury.



The Brazilian star is currently enjoying a strong spell of form, having scored five goals and delivered one assist in the last four matches, piloting Santos to three victories and one draw.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251204_BUS_538835_Neymar-Junior_2239e0ea.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Neymar Junior of Santos" class="wp-image-532022"></figure><figcaption>Neymar Junior of Santos. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Neymar’s hat-trick</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">🚨🚨🚨GOOOOOOOOL DO NEYMAR!!!! THE PRINCE IS KEEPING SANTOS UP! <a href="https://t.co/26IJOu2nBy">pic.twitter.com/26IJOu2nBy</a>— Brasil Football 🇧🇷 (@BrasilEdition) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrasilEdition/status/1996366387993076006?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">🚨🚨🚨GOOOOOOOOL DO NEYMAR!!!! HIS SECOND OF THE MATCH!!!! <a href="https://t.co/wVNzbPdqln">pic.twitter.com/wVNzbPdqln</a>— Brasil Football 🇧🇷 (@BrasilEdition) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrasilEdition/status/1996368960540004620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Neymar is currently playing with a meniscus injury in his knee which will require surgery at the end of the season. Doctors told him not to play on but Santos were in a relegation battle. He’s just scored a 17 minute hat-trick to give Santos safety. <a href="https://t.co/vdWsUqNlEX">pic.twitter.com/vdWsUqNlEX</a>— george (@StokeyyG2) <a href="https://twitter.com/StokeyyG2/status/1996373653538382319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Neymar wants to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup</h2>



Brazil head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has left Neymar out of the most recent National Team call-ups due to the forward dealing with physical issues. The Italian manager made it clear that the Santos star, like any other player, must be at 100% to be considered for selection.



“Neymar? He has to be at 100%. There are many very good players, I need to choose players who are at 100%. It’s not just Neymar, it could be Vinícius. If Vinícius is at 90%, I will call up another player who is at 100%, because it is a team with an extremely high level of competition, especially in attack. In attack, we have many very good players,” Ancelotti indicated in his interview with Esporte Record of TV Record.



The Santos star has recently been dealing with left knee meniscus problems, but his recent performances demonstrate that Neymar is still capable of leading his team to victory, even while managing physical issues. 



With less than seven months remaining until the start of the 2026 World Cup, Ancelotti will have to consider whether the best decision is to leave the Santos star out of the squad or give him an opportunity in what could be his final appearance in a World Cup.

Neymar steps up with heroic hat-trick, gives Santos crucial win in battle to avoid relegation

Neymar steps up with heroic hat-trick, gives Santos crucial win in battle to avoid relegation - Bolavip US

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Santos are visiting Juventude tonight at the Estadio Alfredo Jaconi in a match that carries enormous stakes for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a>‘s team. They are currently fighting to remain in the top division and avoid suffering the second relegation in the club’s history.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/santos">Santos</a> are coming off a much-needed 3-0 victory against the already-relegated Sport Club do Recife. Neymar scored the first goal of that match and delivered the corner kick assist for the third goal.



With that win, Santos managed to climb to 16th position and temporarily exit the relegation zone. However, they hold the same number of points (41) as Club Internacional, the first team in the bottom four. Neymar’s team only holds the edge thanks to a slightly better goal differential.



It is important to remember that out of the 20 teams in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brasileirao">Brasileirao</a>, the bottom four are relegated. Currently, those four are Internacional, Fortaleza, Juventude, and Sport Club do Recife, with the latter two already mathematically eliminated from survival.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251203_BUS_538719_neymar-santos-recife_439ff318.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-538726"></figure><figcaption>Neymar in action against Sport Club do Recife. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What happens if Santos beat Juventude?</h2>



Should Santos secure a victory against Juventude, Neymar and company would move further away from the relegation zone. However, this also depends on the result of Club Internacional’s match against Sao Paulo. If Internacional secure a large victory, they could potentially surpass Santos on goal differential, pulling them back toward the danger zone.


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<h2>What happens if Santos and Juventude tie?</h2>



If Santos and Juventude draw, the team managed by Juan Pablo Vojvoda will only secure one point and could fall back into the relegation zone if Club Internacional manage to win their match against Sao Paulo.



<h2>What happens if Santos lose to Juventude?</h2>



If the already-relegated Juventude manage to pull off an upset and defeat Santos at home, Neymar’s team could immediately drop back into the relegation zone if Club Internacional manage even a draw or a victory against Sao Paulo. 



This would be the worst-case scenario for Santos, leaving them on the verge of suffering the second relegation in their history with only one match remaining against Cruzeiro.

Neymar’s Santos Face Relegation Risk in Critical Final Home Match vs. Juventude

What happens if Neymar’s Santos win, tie or lose vs Juventude today on 2025 Brasileirao Matchday 37?

What happens if Neymar's Santos win, tie or lose vs Juventude today on 2025 Brasileirao Matchday 37? - Bolavip US

Only seven months remain before the 2026 World Cup, and with the global stage fast approaching, national teams are deep into their preparation process. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brazil">Brazil</a> is no exception. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has announced his latest squad list for the November international window — and once again, it has sparked major controversy: Neymar has been left out.



As part of their buildup to the World Cup, the five-time champions scheduled two international friendlies for the upcoming FIFA window. They will face Senegal on Saturday, November 15, and Tunisia on Tuesday, November 18. While both African sides might not possess the same pedigree as Brazil, it’s worth noting that they have already secured qualification for the tournament.



For those matches, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carlo-ancelotti">Ancelotti</a> decided not to call up Neymar. Despite having recovered from his latest injury and reportedly being in good physical condition, the Italian manager opted to leave the Santos star out of the squad once again. It has now been more than two years since Neymar last represented Brazil, casting real doubt over his chances of featuring in the 2026 World Cup.



<h2>Brazil’s call-up list</h2>



<ul><li>Goalkeepers: Ederson (Manchester City), Bento (Athletico Paranaense), Hugo Souza (Flamengo).</li><li>Defenders: Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Eder Militao (Real Madrid), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Danilo (Juventus), Fabricio Bruno (Flamengo), Alex Sandro (Juventus), Wesley (Corinthians), Caio Henrique (Monaco), Paulo Henrique (Atletico Mineiro), Luciano Juba (Bahia).</li><li>Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United), Casemiro (Manchester United), Fabinho (Al Ittihad), Lucas Paqueta (West Ham United), Andrey Santos (Strasbourg).</li><li>Forwards: Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid), Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Estevao (Palmeiras), Vitor Roque (Barcelona), Joao Pedro (Brighton &amp; Hove Albion), Richarlison (Tottenham Hotspur), Matheus Cunha (Wolves), Luiz Henrique (Botafogo).</li></ul>



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CONVOCADOS! 📋 O mister Ancelotti divulgou a lista dos jogadores convocados para os amistosos contra Senegal e Tunísia nos dias 15 e 18/11. ISSO É BRASIL! 🇧🇷 <a href="https://t.co/CSqf7BGTzn">pic.twitter.com/CSqf7BGTzn</a>— brasil (@CBF_Futebol) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBF_Futebol/status/1985411792827253217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



<h2>Ancelotti’s reasoning behind the decision</h2>


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Back in August, when Ancelotti also chose to exclude Neymar from his roster, he addressed the situation directly. “We don’t need to test him. Everyone knows what he can do and the quality he has. What matters now is that he reaches full fitness to help the national team perform at its best in the World Cup,” he said at the time.



Despite Neymar’s recovery from his last injury, Ancelotti has once again determined that it’s best for the team to move forward without him for now. The decision has drawn significant attention across Brazil and beyond, as the World Cup countdown continues and the Selecao have only a handful of games left to fine-tune their squad.



<h2>When was Neymar’s last appearance for Brazil?</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a> Jr.’s last appearance for Brazil came on October 17, 2023, in a World Cup Qualifier against Uruguay. Unfortunately, his night — and his qualifying campaign — ended prematurely when he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee just before halftime. Brazil went on to lose 2-0 in Montevideo, and the devastating injury has kept Neymar out of national team action ever since.

Carlo Ancelotti once again snubs Neymar from Brazil squad for November friendlies

Cristiano Ronaldo sets the record straight in the debate over who’s the best between him and Lionel Messi

Without Messi and Ronaldo: Yamal, Mbappe, Dembele lead 2025 FIFPRO Men’s World 11

Carlo Ancelotti once again snubs Neymar from Brazil squad for November friendlies - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lionel Messi</a> couldn’t find the back of the net during Argentina’s rag-dolling of Puerto Rico in an international friendly held at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. However, that didn’t stop him from breaking a record previously held by Brazil star Neymar Jr.



It’s not often Messi misses out on etching his name onto the score-sheet in a match where goals galore. However, the Argentinian star couldn’t net one past Puerto Rico goaltender Sebastian Cutler. Still, he had enough time to break another international soccer record, dethroning former teammate in FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neymar</a>.



As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Messi now has the most assists in international soccer history. With his brace of assists against Puerto Rico, Messi reached the 60-assist mark with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Argentina</a>, surpassing Neymar Jr, who held the record with 59 goal contributions for Brazil.



<h2>Who scored for Argentina against Puerto Rico?</h2>



While Messi didn’t score against the Puerto Rican national team, there was no shortage of celebrations for Argentina at Chase Stadium. The goal scorers for the ‘Albiceleste’ were Alexis Mac Allister (2), Gonzalo Montiel, Steven Echevarria (own goal), and Lautaro Martinez (2). 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251015_BUS_509392_lionel-messi-1-1-1024x576_d3017e27.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Lionel Messi arrives at Chase Stadium" class="wp-image-509320" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi of Argentina at Chase Stadium on October 14, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. </figcaption></figure>



Messi assisted on Montiel’s goal and Martinez’s second and final tally of the game, capping off the 6-0 victory in the stadium that Messi—as well as Rodrigo De Paul—calls home in the MLS.


 

 

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<h2>When is Messi back in action?</h2>



Though Messi wasn’t expected to complete the game, manager Lionel Scaloni decided not to sub him off the game. This way, he allowed the star to play the full 90 minutes of the matchup with Puerto Rico.



As the international window comes to a close, Messi will report back to Inter Miami as the Herons prepare for their final regular season game against Nashville SC on October 18. Messi and Inter Miami have already secured their spot in the 2025 MLS Audi Cup Playoffs.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251015_BUS_509392_lionel-messi-3-1-1024x576_3be9a20e.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Lionel Messi of Argentina" class="wp-image-509427" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi at Chase Stadium on October 14, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.</figcaption></figure>



The Herons can still claim the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference with either a win over Nashville combined with a draw or loss by FC Cincinnati against CF Montréal, or a draw against Nashville combined with a Cincinnati loss. Either way, Inter Miami cannot fall below third place, setting them up for a favorable matchup in the opening round of the playoffs—at least on paper.



With a new record under his possession, Messi is eager to get back into MLS action as the best part of the season is on the horizon, and Inter Miami will vie to hoist its first MLS Audi Cup.

Lionel Messi makes history by breaking international record held by Neymar

Cristiano Ronaldo makes history ahead of 2026 World Cup with new record Lionel Messi may no longer compete for

Zlatan Ibrahimovic chooses his top 3 greatest players of all time — and leaves Cristiano Ronaldo out

Lionel Messi makes history by breaking international record held by Neymar - Bolavip US

Bayern Munich opened their Champions League campaign with authority, defeating Chelsea 3-1 at the Allianz Arena. Harry Kane led the way with a brace, reaching a milestone that only <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> and Neymar had previously achieved.



With his penalty goal against Chelsea to extend Bayern’s lead to 2-0, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/harry-kane">Kane</a> became just the third player in Champions League history to score 20 or more goals with two different clubs. Prior to him, only Ronaldo and Neymar had managed the feat.



Ronaldo tallied 21 goals during his Manchester United tenure before becoming the all-time leading scorer in the competition with 105 for Real Madrid. He also added 14 goals in 23 games with Juventus. 



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a>, meanwhile, netted 21 times for Barcelona and 22 for Paris Saint-Germain. Kane matched those numbers with 21 goals during his time at Tottenham Hotspur and has now added 21 more with Bayern Munich.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250918_BUS_494486_harry-kane-1-1-1024x576_3ed66fd8.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-494490" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Harry Kane scores from the penalty spot against Chelsea. (Alex Grimm/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Kane closing in on Beckham’s English record</h2>



Beyond his club success, Kane is also on the verge of making history for England. With his brace, the striker reached 53 total goal contributions in the Champions League (42 goals and 11 assists), just one shy of David Beckham’s all-time mark among English players.


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Beckham currently holds the record with 54 contributions — 14 goals and 30 assists for Manchester United, plus two goals and eight assists with Real Madrid. He did not record a goal or assist during his stints with AC Milan and PSG.



Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney rounds out the top three with 51 goal contributions at the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/champions-league">Champions League</a> during his time with the Red Devils.

Harry Kane Becomes Third Player to Score 20+ Champions League Goals With Two Clubs Alongside Cristiano Ronaldo

Harry Kane joins Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar in exclusive Champions League feat

Messi’s missed penalty vs Charlotte makes it 32 in his career: How many has Ronaldo failed?

Not Messi: Former Real Madrid coach places one player above Cristiano Ronaldo as the greatest

Harry Kane joins Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar in exclusive Champions League feat - Bolavip US

Brazil travel to Bolivia to close out their participation in the Conmebol 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup-qualifiers">World Cup Qualifiers</a> with their spot in the tournament already secured. However, many fans were left surprised by the absences of star forwards Neymar and Vinicius Jr.



For <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brazil">Brazil</a>’s final two qualifiers, head coach Carlo Ancelotti surprised many by leaving both stars out of the squad, though his decisions came with clear explanations.



On <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vinicius-jr">Vinicius Jr</a>.’s side, the Real Madrid forward was suspended for the previous match against Chile. With Brazil already through to the World Cup, Ancelotti and his staff opted not to risk him in the final game against Bolivia.



As for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a>, the Santos forward was excluded for technical reasons. Ancelotti explained that the decision was aimed at allowing Neymar to regain peak physical form before returning to the national team.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250909_BUS_488758_neymar-uruguay-1024x576_79c1af1a.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-488846" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Neymar’s last match with Brazil took place on October 17, 2023, in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. (Ernesto Ryan/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Controversy over Neymar’s exclusion</h2>



Neymar’s absence from Brazil’s final squad raised eyebrows after conflicting statements from both the player and head coach Ancelotti. Initially, the Italian suggested the former Barcelona star was left out due to a minor muscle issue. But Neymar dismissed those claims, saying he was fully fit.


 

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“Neymar is not in this call-up because he had a small issue last week, but no tests were needed. Everyone knows Neymar, the national team, and the Brazilian fans. Like everyone else, he needs to be in top physical shape to help the team perform well and give his best at the World Cup,” Ancelotti told reporters during a press conference prior to the game against Chile.



The Santos forward, however, contradicted that explanation after a league match. “I think they left me out for technical reasons; I don’t believe it had anything to do with my physical condition,” Neymar explained.



After Brazil’s 3-0 win over Chile, Ancelotti doubled down, making clear that Neymar’s omission was a coaching decision. “I took it normally. It was a technical decision,” Ancelotti said when asked about Neymar’s remarks. “Physical condition is an important factor for us. Nobody questions Neymar’s technical ability, but what we evaluate every day and in every match is fitness — and that applies to Neymar, just like everyone else”.

Neymar and Vinicius Jr. Absent as Brazil Face Bolivia in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Why are Neymar and Vinicius Jr not playing for Brazil vs Bolivia today at Conmebol 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?

Neymar breaks silence after being snubbed from Brazil squad, contradicts Carlo Ancelotti

Not only Neymar: Real Madrid stars Vinicius, Rodrygo, Militao, and Endrick snubbed by Ancelotti for September WC Qualifiers

Why are Neymar and Vinicius Jr not playing for Brazil vs Bolivia today at Conmebol 2026 World Cup Qualifiers? - Bolavip US

Brazil had long been one of CONMEBOL’s most dependable teams in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup-qualifiers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Cup qualifiers</a>, consistently delivering strong performances year after year. However, their start in the 2026 edition was shaky, prompting speculation about their potential absence from the tournament. In recent matches, they have regained their top form. Nonetheless, head coach Carlo Ancelotti surprised by excluding both <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vinicius-jr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vinicius Jr</a>. and Neymar Jr. from the game against Chile.



Despite their previous unstable performance, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brazil" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brazil</a> secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup several months ago. Though Carlo Ancelotti has only overseen a handful of matches, his leadership has imbued the team with a fresh perspective. He has already tweaked the roster, signaling potential changes within the squad. With no pressing need for a particular outcome in today’s match, these games offer an opportunity to further solidify the team’s cohesion and strategy.



Even if their performance has been unstable, Brazil secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup several months ago. Though Carlo Ancelotti has only overseen a handful of matches, his leadership has imbued the team with a fresh perspective. With no pressing need for a particular outcome in today’s match, these games offer an opportunity to further solidify the team’s cohesion and strategy.



<h2>Why is Vinicius Jr not playing for Brazil vs Chile in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers today?</h2>



Despite being one of Carlo Ancelotti’s pivotal players, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vinicius Jr</a> did not make the squad for the recent double qualifying matches against Chile and Bolivia. A suspension sidelined him from participating in Matchday 17, prompting Coach Ancelotti to exclude him from the roster of 28 players.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250905_BUS_485809_Vinicius-Junior-1-1-1024x576_2176f2d9.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Vinicius Junior in 2024" class="wp-image-358287" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Vinicius Junior of Brazil celebrates after scoring a goal.</figcaption></figure>



Vinicius Jr’s exclusion doesn’t cast doubt on his capabilities, as the Real Madrid star has flourished under Ancelotti’s guidance. His presence at the 2026 FIFA World Cup seems almost certain. However, the 25-year-old winger still needs to showcase his peak form with the national team, as fans have criticized him for his limited impact so far.


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<h2>Why is Neymar Jr not playing for Brazil vs Chile in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers today?</h2>



Since October 17, 2023, Neymar Jr, unlike Vinicius Jr, has not been called up for Brazil. A series of injuries and ongoing physical instability have slowed his return to form with Santos. The veteran forward has featured in 22 matches, tallying 6 goals and 3 assists since rejoining his boyhood club. Despite these contributions, he was omitted from the 28-man roster for the upcoming double-header.



After his absence, head coach Carlo Ancelotti was blunt, making his message clear. “Neymar, like everyone else, needs to get into good physical condition to be able to help the team do well and try to do their best in the World Cup… These two games are the last games of the qualifiers, and we need to finish this phase well,” he said, as reported by Bein Sports. 



With this statements, Carlo Ancelotti makes it clear that Neymar’s absence is not due to physical problems but technical, leaving doubts about his presence in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Why are Vinicius Jr and Neymar not playing for Brazil vs Chile in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers today?

Brazil vs Chile: Lineups for Matchday 17 of South American 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Why are Vinicius Jr and Neymar not playing for Brazil vs Chile in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers today? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brazil">Brazil</a> came from a difficult stretch in recent years, marked by a lack of charisma and boldness that fans had grown accustomed to. Many agreed that the last true representative of that spirit was Neymar Jr., the player they believed could restore that sense of confidence. Yet he ended up left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s most recent call-up.



Neymar contradicted Ancelotti’s explanation for his absence from the Brazil squad. The forward argued that his physical problems were not as concerning as the coach suggested, despite Ancelotti insisting that fitness issues were the key factor behind his decision not to include the Santos star in the upcoming international window.



“I had an inflammation in the adductor. It was uncomfortable, but nothing serious. I even played today. Against Bahia last Sunday, I wasn’t going to play anyway because of suspension. So they just preferred to leave me out of training so I could recover,” Neymar explained after Santos drew 0-0 with Fluminense in a post-match press conference.



Ancelotti, however, maintained that Neymar was omitted for fitness-related reasons. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a> dismissed that claim. “I think they left me out for technical reasons; I don’t believe it had anything to do with my physical condition,” said the forward, who remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="398452" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250901_BUS_483134_Carlo-Ancelotti-3_e090c0ed.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Carlo Ancelotti in 2025" class="wp-image-398452" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>Will Neymar make it to the World Cup?</h2>



Ancelotti has yet to finalize his list of players for the World Cup. His arrival to the South American giants came at the start of the summer, but Neymar still appears to be one of his key options. The Italian manager underlined the importance of the forward during a press conference.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/soccer/inter-miami-lose-2025-leagues-cup-final-how-many-career-titles-does-lionel-messi-have-compared-to-cristiano-ronaldo"></div>

 

 


“We don’t need to test him. Everyone knows what he can do. Like the others, he must arrive in good physical condition to help the team give its best at the World Cup,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carlo-ancelotti">Ancelotti</a> said. Neymar is fully aware of the standards he must meet, and everyone understands Brazil need him at his peak.



Brazil have already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup. In the final double matchday of the Conmebol qualifiers, they will host Chile at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro before traveling to Bolivia. Those matches will serve as some of Ancelotti’s final tune-ups before the most important competition in the sport.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina">Argentina</a>’s star forward, Angel Di Maria, long known for his knack for delivering in big finals and helping his national team to recent titles, is now spending his final years playing for Rosario Central in his home country. Many imagined a dream ending alongside Lionel Messi, his most iconic teammate with the national team. Instead, he surprised fans by naming a different player, a former PSG partner.



After scoring a stunning free kick in the clásico at the Gigante de Arroyito, the Rosario Central captain once again made headlines off the field. In a declaration that fired up Canalla supporters, he revealed that Neymar would have been his dream teammate in the derby against Newell’s.



Asked which global star he would have chosen to share the clásico with, Di Maria didn’t hesitate: “Because of how close we are, Neymar. I care about him a lot. We have a great relationship and we still talk. I know how much he likes Argentine soccer and I know he would have loved to be part of a Central-Newell’s game.”



Di Maria didn’t leave the comment at that. He went a step further, hinting at the possibility of bringing Neymar to Argentina one day. “I would have loved for him to be there. Maybe in the future I could invite him. That would be very special,” he said. Even if it wasn’t <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Messi</a>, the bond Di Maria built with Neymar in Paris remains unmatched.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="479857" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250826_BUS_479816_GettyImages-1267021396-1_a39c0df4.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="di maria and neymar celebrating" class="wp-image-479857" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Angel Di Maria of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates with Neymar after scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>Di Maria and Neymar’s PSG years and their friendship</h2>



Angel Di Maria and Neymar shared the field with Paris Saint-Germain from 2017 to 2022, a stretch in which their connection on and off the pitch played a crucial role for the team. With Di Maria’s tireless work on the wing and Neymar’s creativity and flair through the middle, the two formed one of PSG’s most dangerous attacking duos. Alongside Kylian Mbappe, they generated countless chances that kept the Parisian side at the top of European <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer">soccer</a>.


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Their partnership reached its peak during the 2019-2020 Champions League run, particularly in the final stages played in Lisbon. Di Maria delivered a masterclass performance in the semifinal against RB Leipzig, scoring once and assisting twice, including one for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a>. The Brazilian returned the favor by calling him “Di Magia” on social media, a gesture that captured the respect and chemistry they shared. That year, PSG reached their first-ever Champions League final.



Beyond the field, their friendship was equally strong. Despite representing rival national teams, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/angel-di-maria">Di Maria</a>, along with compatriot Leandro Paredes, often joked with Neymar about the 2021 Copa America final where Argentina defeated Brazil at the Maracana. It was a reminder that their camaraderie went well beyond competitive boundaries.



The end of their time together came in 2022, when Di Maria said goodbye to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/psg">PSG</a> at the close of the season. Neymar, in an emotional tribute, dedicated a goal to his longtime teammate during the farewell match. The moment underlined the respect and affection between them, cementing Di Maria’s legacy not only as a world-class player but also as a trusted friend. Together, they left a lasting mark on PSG’s modern era and on the bond between two South American stars who defined a generation in Paris.

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On Monday afternoon, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brazil">Brazil</a> announced its squad for the final two rounds of the World Cup Qualifiers, and the roster included several surprising omissions. The most notable absence is Neymar Jr., whose return had been expected but will not happen. That immediately raises the question: when was the last time he played, and how many times has Lionel Messi featured for Argentina since then?



Neymar’s last match with Brazil took place on October 17, 2023, in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. In that game, he suffered a devastating knee injury — a torn ACL and meniscus — that has kept him out of action with the national team ever since.



Although <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/not-only-neymar-real-madrid-stars-vinicius-rodrygo-militao-and-endrick-snubbed-by-ancelotti-for-september-wc-qualifiers">Neymar has attempted to return</a>, setbacks and further complications have prevented him from rejoining the team. As of late August 2025, his comeback with Brazil remains uncertain.



Since that injury, Brazil have faced growing criticism about losing their identity and drifting away from the traditional Jogo Bonito. For many, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a> represented the last true connection to that style, and supporters continue to long for his return at peak form.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="252413" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250825_BUS_478981_neymar-injury_a28e46a5.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="neymar " class="wp-image-252413" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Neymar of Brazil reacts after being injured.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>How many times has Messi played for Argentina since Neymar’s injury?</h2>



Since October 17, 2023, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>’s international career with Argentina has remained highly active, while Neymar has been sidelined. His appearances have included a mix of World Cup qualifiers, Copa América fixtures, and friendlies.


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Neymar’s final game with Brazil came on October 17, 2023. Since then, Messi has played the following matches with Argentina:



<ul><li>October 12, 2023 vs Paraguay: World Cup qualifier.</li><li>October 17, 2023 vs Peru: World Cup qualifier.</li><li>November 16, 2023 vs Uruguay: World Cup qualifier.</li><li>November 21, 2023 vs Brazil: World Cup qualifier.</li><li>June 9, 2024 vs Ecuador: Friendly.</li><li>June 14, 2024 vs Guatemala: Friendly.</li><li>June 20, 2024 vs Canada: 2024 Copa América group stage.</li><li>June 25, 2024 vs Chile: 2024 Copa América group stage.</li><li>June 29, 2024 vs Peru: 2024 Copa América group stage.</li><li>July 5, 2024 vs Ecuador: 2024 Copa América quarterfinal.</li><li>July 9, 2024 vs Canada: 2024 Copa América semifinal.</li><li>July 14, 2024 vs Colombia: 2024 Copa América final — Argentina were crowned back-to-back champions of South America.</li><li>September 5, 2024 vs Chile: World Cup qualifier.</li><li>September 10, 2024 vs Colombia: World Cup qualifier.</li><li>June 10, 2025 vs Colombia: World Cup quilifier.</li></ul>



In total, Messi has played 15 matches for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina">Argentina</a> since Neymar’s last appearance with Brazil. The most significant were the win over Brazil at the Maracanã, his two-goal performance against Peru, and the 2024 Copa América final victory over Colombia, which delivered another continental title to Argentina.



<h2>Contrast between Messi and Neymar</h2>



The contrast is striking: while Neymar’s future with Brazil remains clouded in uncertainty, Messi continues adding chapters to his remarkable international <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer">soccer</a> career. For Brazil, the wait for their star’s return goes on, while Argentina enjoy the stability and brilliance of their captain.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brazil">Brazil</a> unveiled its squad on Monday for the final two matches of the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, and the biggest surprise is the absence of Neymar Jr. alongside Real Madrid stars Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, Eder Militao, and Endrick, several of the team’s top figures left out by Carlo Ancelotti.



Head coach Carlo Ancelotti, speaking at a press conference in Rio de Janeiro, explained that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a> was not included due to “a minor physical issue,” while Vinicius Jr. will also be unavailable due to a one-match suspension.



Brazil’s national team coach Carlo Ancelotti explained in a press conference that his main objective for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers is to get to know more players within his reach. “My idea is to get to know new players whom I don’t know well personally,” the Italian coach said, highlighting the major changes in his squad, which saw nine players from the previous call-up left out.



With Brazil having already secured qualification for next year’s World Cup, Ancelotti chose to call up players who have never been selected before or who have had limited opportunities. The move allows him to observe and test new talent as he evaluates options for the squad he will field in the tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Here is the full list of call-ups:



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CONVOCADOS! ✅ O mister Carlo Ancelotti divulgou a lista dos jogadores convocados para os jogos nos dias 4 e 9 de setembro contra Chile, no Maracanã, e Bolívia, em El Alto. ISSO É BRASIL! 🇧🇷 <a href="https://t.co/2CC0oDTypL">pic.twitter.com/2CC0oDTypL</a>— brasil (@CBF_Futebol) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBF_Futebol/status/1960063332813099277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



<h2>The real reason for the absence of Real Madrid stars</h2>



The absence of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-madrid">Madrid</a> stars is not due to any issues beyond availability and fitness. Aside from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vinicius-jr">Vinicius</a> Jr.’s suspension, Ancelotti explained that both Vinicius and Rodrygo were excluded because he already knows them very well, while Neymar was left out due to a new injury.


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Ancelotti also emphasized the importance of fitness in his selection process: “A very important criterion for our staff is the physical aspect. Players in the national team must be 100% physically fit. This is a very important criterion for us. Because the competition in every position is very high—right-backs, defenders, midfielders, forwards. The competition is very intense. If a player isn’t 100%, I can call another without any problem,” he said.



Other “surprising” omissions include <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/eder-militao">Eder Militao</a>, who has only played 90 minutes after nine months recovering from injury, and Endrick, who is still rehabilitating. 



Regarding <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rodrygo">Rodrygo</a>, Ancelotti added: “Rodrygo, I obviously have a lot of affection for him, like everyone does. Yesterday he played very well with Real Madrid. It was his first game after a long time, so he has time to prepare properly and return to the national team.” While they could have been included for team bonding, Ancelotti sees this as the perfect opportunity to test new players and evaluate Brazil’s depth ahead of the World Cup.



<h2>Surprises and new call-ups</h2>



The squad announced Monday includes several players who have never been called up to the national <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer">soccer</a> team, including Kaio Jorge of Cruzeiro, the current top scorer in the Campeonato Brasileiro. Among the surprises, midfielder Lucas Paquetá makes his return to the squad after not being called since investigations into his alleged involvement in a sports betting fraud network began.


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In their final two qualifying matches, Brazil will host Chile on September 4 at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro and then travel to face Bolivia five days later in El Alto, at 4,100 meters above sea level. Brazil mathematically secured its spot in the 2026 World Cup in June with a victory over Paraguay in São Paulo, with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carlo-ancelotti">Ancelotti</a> already in charge of the team.

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As the next round of international fixtures approaches, many expected to see Neymar Jr return to Brazil’s roster after recently featuring for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/santos">Santos</a> and being included in Carlo Ancelotti’s preliminary list. However, a new setback could leave him out of the squad once again.



According to Fabrizio Romano, Neymar has suffered a thigh injury during the week. Ancelotti wanted to call the forward as part of Brazil’s squad for September, but the injury now puts his participation in serious doubt.



The former Barcelona and PSG star was already unavailable for Sunday’s clash against Bahia in the Brazilian league, as he must serve a one-match suspension for yellow card accumulation. The absence has fueled speculation about his short-term future with both club and country.



Club sources told Geglobo that Neymar felt discomfort in training and has been placed under treatment for at least one week. If his recovery stays on schedule, he could return on August 31 when Santos face Fluminense in the Brazilian league.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="255610" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250824_BUS_478452_Neymar-Brazil_7b20ad64.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Neymar Jr. of Brazil reacts after being injured during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Uruguay and Brazil at Centenario Stadium on October 17, 2023 in Montevideo, Uruguay." class="wp-image-255610" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/27174220/Neymar-Brazil.jpg 1920w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/27174220/Neymar-Brazil-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/27174220/Neymar-Brazil-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/27174220/Neymar-Brazil-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/27174220/Neymar-Brazil-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/27174220/Neymar-Brazil-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/27174220/Neymar-Brazil-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/27174220/Neymar-Brazil-250x140.jpg 250w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Neymar Jr. of Brazil reacts after being injured during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Uruguay and Brazil at Centenario Stadium on October 17, 2023 in Montevideo, Uruguay.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>What happened to Neymar?</h2>



Santos confirmed on Sunday, August 24, that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a> is dealing with a muscular edema in his right thigh. The injury comes just as Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti prepares to announce Brazil’s squad for the final two matches of the South American World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia. The first match will be played in Rio de Janeiro on September 4, while the second is set for El Alto, near La Paz, in what will be the last round of the qualification campaign.


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<h2>When was Neymar’s last game for Brazil?</h2>



Neymar has not played for Brazil since October 2023, sidelined repeatedly by physical problems. This call-up would have marked his long-awaited return to the national team. Ancelotti, who took charge of Brazil earlier this year after leaving Real Madrid, is expected to announce his roster on Monday, and Neymar had been one of the most anticipated inclusions.



This latest injury not only delays Neymar’s comeback on the international stage but also raises fresh questions about his durability at a key moment for both Santos and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brazil">Brazil</a>. Supporters of both teams hoped to see him back in form, but his status now remains uncertain with critical matches on the horizon.



The coming days will determine whether Neymar can overcome this setback and join Brazil’s final push in the qualifiers. For now, both Santos and Brazil wait anxiously for updates, as their star forward fights against time once again.

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Santos faced <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/vasco-da-gama">Vasco da Gama</a> in a decisive Serie A clash and suffered a crushing 6-0 defeat, a result that leaves them in serious trouble in the standings. Both clubs entered the match battling relegation, making it a crucial contest. Neymar Jr could not make an impact for Santos, while Philippe Coutinho stepped up in style for Vasco.



This loss marked the worst defeat of Neymar’s career, a devastating blow as Santos continue their fight to avoid relegation. The No. 10 left the field in tears and had to be consoled by head coach Fernando Diniz. To make matters worse, Neymar picked up his third yellow card of the season, which rules him out of the next match against Bahia.



Santos now sit on 21 points in 15th place, slipping dangerously close to the relegation zone. The result also had immediate consequences off the field, as head coach Cleber Xavier was dismissed by the club’s board right after the final whistle.



<h2>What Neymar said after the match</h2>



After the game, Neymar did not hide his frustration. “I’m embarrassed. I’m totally disappointed with our performance,” he told reporters. “The fans have every right to protest, obviously without violence… But if they want to curse and insult us, they are in their right.”



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Neymar was seen in tears after Santos’ 0-6 loss tonight 🥺😥 The Santos fans turned their backs to the pitch in protest, and immediately after the game coach Cléber Xavier was sacked 😳 <a href="https://t.co/1f7EV4nRTM">pic.twitter.com/1f7EV4nRTM</a>— 433 (@433) <a href="https://twitter.com/433/status/1957204904725905480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



“It’s an extreme shame. I had never experienced something like this in my life. Unfortunately, it happened,” he continued. Asked about his tears, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a> admitted: “The tears were from anger, from everything. Unfortunately, I can’t help at all. Honestly, it was total crap — that’s the reality.”


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<h2>Neymar’s worst defeats in his career</h2>



Since turning professional in 2009 under head coach Vagner Mancini, Neymar has worn the shirts of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/santos">Santos</a>, Barcelona, PSG, Al Hilal and the Brazil national team. Until now, the heaviest defeat he had experienced was 4-0, which happened twice.



The first came with Santos in the 2011 FIFA Club World Cup final against Barcelona. More than five years later, while at Barcelona, Neymar was on the pitch for a Champions League 4-0 defeat to PSG.



Beyond those, all other losses in his career came by narrower margins. Some may point to Brazil’s infamous 7-1 World Cup semifinal defeat to Germany in 2014, but Neymar did not play in that match. Despite being the centerpiece of that Brazil team, he had been ruled out after suffering an injury in the quarterfinal against Colombia.

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Neymar left in tears after suffering worst defeat in his career as Santos lose 6-0 to Coutinho's Vasco da Gama - Bolavip US

On Wednesday night, Santos earned a key 1–0 victory over Flamengo that improves their position in Brazil’s Serie A. The lone goal of the match came from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar Junior</a> late in the second half, just minutes before the final whistle.



For <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/santos">Santos</a>, this was a crucial match given their difficult position in the league. After earning promotion to the top division at the end of 2024, they got off to a poor start in the tournament, and after the first 12 rounds, they found themselves in the relegation zone.



With just 3 wins, 2 draws, and 7 losses, Santos had only 11 points and were among the bottom four in the standings—a very concerning spot, even with a long road still ahead in the season. To make matters worse, they were facing <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/flamengo">Flamengo</a>, who came into the match as co-leaders of the league with 27 points, alongside Cruzeiro.



However, Ney and his teammates put in a strong effort to close the gap between the two sides and delivered a solid performance at home. They managed to neutralize Flamengo’s main strengths and avoided major problems defensively. In fact, during the first half, Santos came closest to opening the scoring with a shot from Deivid Washington that narrowly missed the target.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">WHAT A GOAL BY NEYMAR HE&apos;S STILL GOT IT <a href="https://t.co/QMeyccAbNj">pic.twitter.com/QMeyccAbNj</a>— fan (@NoodleHairCR7) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoodleHairCR7/status/1945646800678912249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Neymar delivers the win for Santos</h2>



Wednesday’s match marked Neymar’s return to the pitch after a lengthy absence. Following a muscle injury that kept him out of several early-season league matches as well as the most recent Brazil national team call-ups, the forward had only seen limited minutes in two matches between May and June, before the pause in Brazil’s Serie A due to the FIFA Club World Cup.


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Against Flamengo, Ney looked fully recovered physically—so much so that he started the match and stayed on the field for the full 90 minutes. And not only that: in the closing minutes, he still had enough energy to make the difference.



In the 83rd minute, he received the ball inside the box, turned, dribbled past a defender, and when he found just enough space, scored the winning goal with a right-footed shot.



<h2>Neymar’s numbers with Santos</h2>



Injuries have been a recurring issue throughout Neymar’s career, and his second stint with Santos has been no exception. That’s why he’s only played 13 matches for the club this year across Serie A, the Campeonato Paulista, and the Copa do Brasil. Wednesday’s goal was just his fourth. He has also recorded three assists and one red card.



<h2>When will Neymar play next?</h2>



Following the break for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Brazil’s Serie A resumes with a demanding schedule. After Wednesday’s 1–0 win over Flamengo, Santos will have just three days of rest before facing Mirassol on the road this Saturday. Then, next Wednesday, they’ll return to Estadio Urbano Caldeira to host Internacional.


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FIFA has introduced an expanded Club World Cup format starting this summer, replacing the structure used in previous editions. In past years, the tournament featured one representative from each continental confederation; now, it includes 32 clubs and follows a format similar to the FIFA World Cup. While many of the world’s biggest stars will be there, notable exceptions include <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> and Lamine Yamal.



CR7 is, without question, the most high-profile name among those missing from the Club World Cup. The Portuguese forward will not take part in the tournament as his club, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/why-is-cristiano-ronaldos-al-nassr-not-playing-at-the-fifa-club-world-cup-2025">Al Nassr, failed to meet the qualification standards over the past four years</a> to earn one of Asia’s spots.



However, he did have the opportunity to sign with one of the participating clubs, with rumors linking him to Monterrey, River Plate, and Botafogo, but he ultimately chose to pass on that chance in order to stay focused on his future in Saudi Arabia.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lamine-yamal">Yamal</a> finds himself in a situation similar to Cristiano’s. He is undoubtedly one of the top talents in world soccer right now, but Barcelona did not perform well enough in recent editions of the UEFA Champions League to secure a place in the global tournament, which will be held this summer in the United States.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250613_BUS_417739_yamal-1024x576_903e7d26.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-398820" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15164558/yamal-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15164558/yamal-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15164558/yamal-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15164558/yamal-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15164558/yamal-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15164558/yamal-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15164558/yamal-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15164558/yamal.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lamine Yamal playing for Barcelona</figcaption></figure>



In addition to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal, other top-level stars will also be missing from the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/club-world-cup">Club World Cup</a>:


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/soccer/lionel-messi-is-a-three-time-club-world-cup-champion-how-many-titles-has-cristiano-ronaldo-won"></div>

 

 


<h2>5 – Robert Lewandowski</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250613_BUS_417739_Robert-Lewandowski-3-1024x576_b8ffbe8c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-398620" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15141840/Robert-Lewandowski-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15141840/Robert-Lewandowski-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15141840/Robert-Lewandowski-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15141840/Robert-Lewandowski-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15141840/Robert-Lewandowski-3-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15141840/Robert-Lewandowski-3-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15141840/Robert-Lewandowski-3-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15141840/Robert-Lewandowski-3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Robert Lewandowski of Barcelona</figcaption></figure>



Like Yamal, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/robert-lewandowski">Lewandowski</a> is another Barcelona superstar impacted by the club’s struggles in Europe in recent years. During the four Champions League editions used to determine Club World Cup qualification, the Spanish giants were eliminated twice in the group stage, once in the round of 16, and once in the quarterfinals.



That left the Polish forward without a chance to play in a second Club World Cup, having previously done so with Bayern Munich in 2020. And given that the new format will be held every four years, it’s hard to imagine Lewandowski having another opportunity—he’ll be 40 by then.



<h2>4 – Florian Wirtz</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250613_BUS_417739_Florian-Wirtz-of-Bayer-Leverkusen-1024x576_3b5a8ecc.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-318085" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20204949/Florian-Wirtz-of-Bayer-Leverkusen-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20204949/Florian-Wirtz-of-Bayer-Leverkusen-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20204949/Florian-Wirtz-of-Bayer-Leverkusen-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20204949/Florian-Wirtz-of-Bayer-Leverkusen-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20204949/Florian-Wirtz-of-Bayer-Leverkusen-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20204949/Florian-Wirtz-of-Bayer-Leverkusen-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20204949/Florian-Wirtz-of-Bayer-Leverkusen-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/20204949/Florian-Wirtz-of-Bayer-Leverkusen.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Florian Wirtz of Bayer Leverkusen</figcaption></figure>



Bayer Leverkusen were last season’s breakout team in Germany, winning their first-ever Bundesliga title under head coach Xabi Alonso. Florian Wirtz was the star of that squad, and his performances have convinced Liverpool to consider a $157 million move for him this summer. But neither his former club nor his potential new one has qualified for the Club World Cup.



<h2>3 – Karim Benzema</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250613_BUS_417739_Karim-Benzema-1024x576_7612fece.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-387053" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28140855/Karim-Benzema-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28140855/Karim-Benzema-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28140855/Karim-Benzema-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28140855/Karim-Benzema-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28140855/Karim-Benzema-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28140855/Karim-Benzema-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28140855/Karim-Benzema-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/28140855/Karim-Benzema.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Karim Benzema of Al Ittihad</figcaption></figure>



The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/karim-benzema">Benzema</a> played a key role in Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League title that year—a triumph that secured the Spanish club’s place in the Club World Cup. However, Karim won’t be there. The French striker has been playing for Al Ittihad for the past two years. Like Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, they failed to earn a continental spot in the tournament.



<h2>2 – Mohamed Salah</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250613_BUS_417739_Mohamed-Salah-2-1024x576_4adb4a88.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-334037" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11161359/Mohamed-Salah-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11161359/Mohamed-Salah-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11161359/Mohamed-Salah-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11161359/Mohamed-Salah-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11161359/Mohamed-Salah-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11161359/Mohamed-Salah-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11161359/Mohamed-Salah-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/11161359/Mohamed-Salah-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mohamed Salah of Liverpool</figcaption></figure>



Liverpool captured the Premier League title this year with a comfortable lead over Arsenal in the standings. Mohamed Salah was the driving force behind that success, leading the league in goals (29) and assists (18), and winning the MVP award without question. The Reds’ failure to qualify for the Club World Cup makes Salah one of the most prominent absentees.



<h2>1 – Neymar</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250613_BUS_417739_Neymar-7-1024x576_68b75d63.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Neymar" class="wp-image-342309" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/22203328/Neymar-7-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/22203328/Neymar-7-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/22203328/Neymar-7-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/22203328/Neymar-7-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/22203328/Neymar-7-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/22203328/Neymar-7-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/22203328/Neymar-7-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/22203328/Neymar-7.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Neymar of Santos</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/neymar">Neymar</a>’s case is perhaps the most intriguing of all. He was part of Al Hilal until the end of January—one of four Asian clubs that secured a place in the Club World Cup. Had he stayed with the Saudi side for the full season, the Brazilian forward would have been one of the tournament’s biggest attractions. However, Ney chose to terminate his contract and return to Santos in hopes of regaining his top form—a goal he has yet to achieve.


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