Neymar ended his goal drought for 2026 in remarkable style on Thursday, helping Santos secure a 2-1 win over Vasco da Gama in the fourth round of the Brasileirão.
Following the match, the former star of Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain addressed his critics and the growing expectations surrounding a potential return to the Brazil national team for the upcoming World Cup.
“Last week, they labeled me the worst player in the world. But today I scored two goals, and that’s what counts,” Neymar told SporTV. “Football can be unpredictable. One day you’re deemed unfit or ‘retired’; the next, people are advocating for your spot at the World Cup.”
“I’m fully committed and striving to be in top shape. This was my third game of the year and only my second full 90 minutes. I felt some cramping towards the end, but that comes with the territory.”
Neymar had surgery earlier in 2026 and has only recently returned to action with Santos. Brazil’s manager Carlo Ancelotti has consistently stated that Neymar would be considered for the World Cup if he proves his fitness.
After netting his first goal in the 25th minute, the Santos No. 10 celebrated by mimicking the dance performed by Vinícius Júnior after scoring during Real Madrid’s Champions League playoff against Benfica.
Vasco managed to equalize before halftime, but Neymar secured the win by scoring again in the second half.
The joyous atmosphere for Neymar and Santos supporters momentarily soured after a heated exchange with Vasco midfielder Thiago Mendes. The tension between Neymar and Mendes dates back to 2020, when Mendes’s challenge led to a serious injury for Neymar during a match between PSG and Lyon.
Neymar didn’t hold back in his remarks about the incident.
“He always tries to stir up trouble and act tough. He broke me once at PSG, and he threatened me again today. It’s always the same with him,” Neymar stated.
This brace marks Neymar’s first goals since December 2025, when he finished the previous year with a two-goal performance against Juventude.