Neymar was at the centre of the action in Santos’ 1–1 draw with Mirassol on Wednesday, 19 November, at Vila Belmiro.
He scored, played on despite discomfort in his left knee, and conceded the penalty that ultimately cost his side the victory in the 34th round of the Brasileirão.
The result failed to give Santos the breathing room they hoped for over Vitória, who sit 17th, while Mirassol moved to the brink of mathematically securing their place in the 2026 Libertadores.
Mirassol began strongly, putting pressure on Santos and winning two consecutive corners. Moments after the second, Lautaro Díaz picked out Neymar.
The number 10 timed his run perfectly by dropping into his own half to avoid being offside, then capitalised when his marker slipped. It was his fourth goal of the league season and his first since 4 August.
Neymar briefly caused concern by feeling pain in his left knee, but he continued.
Mirassol, however, were not unsettled by the goal and maintained their intensity, repeatedly testing the Santos defence. Gabriel was especially prominent for the visitors.
Before the break, Santos had another strong opportunity created by Igor Vinícius, but Neymar’s finish was poor.
The second half maintained a high tempo. Santos created chances but failed to convert, and were punished when Neymar brought down Reinaldo inside the box.
After a VAR review, the penalty was awarded. Brazão guessed correctly, but Reinaldo converted confidently for his 12th league goal of the season.
Santos manager Juan Pablo Vojvoda responded by adding pace to his side, while Mirassol’s Ricardo Catalá strengthened the midfield and refreshed his attack.
Robinho Jr. came close for Santos, and Neymar forced Walter into an important save at the other end, preventing Mirassol from completing the turnaround.
Despite late pressure, Santos were unable to secure back-to-back wins.
Santos now sit on 37 points, just one ahead of Vitória in the battle to avoid relegation.
Mirassol move to 60 points, and will confirm their Libertadores place if São Paulo fail to beat Corinthians.
Both clubs return to action on 24 November.
Santos travel to Beira-Rio to face Internacional, while Mirassol host Ceará at Maião.
