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Neymar was left in tears on the pitch as Santos suffered a crushing 6-0 home defeat to Vasco da Gama – the heaviest defeat of his career.
The defeat marked the first time Santos had conceded six goals at home in a Brazilian Serie A match, leaving the eight-time champions dangerously just two points above the relegation zone. This result also cost coach Cleber Xavier his job, with the club announcing his dismissal just hours after the match.
Vasco’s victory, the first in six league matches and the biggest in 17 years, was highlighted by a brace from former Liverpool and Aston Villa striker Philippe Coutinho.
Speaking after the match, Neymar did not hide his frustration.
“I’m ashamed,” he said. “I am totally disappointed with our performance. The fans have every right to protest, obviously without resorting to violence. But if they want to insult and insult, they are right.”
As he left the field, emotional, Neymar added: “I have never experienced this in my life. The tears came from anger, from everything. Unfortunately, I cannot help in every way.”
Santos were relegated for the first time in their history in 2023 before bouncing back to the top flight last season. Neymar, who came through the club’s youth ranks before leaving for Barcelona in 2013, returned on a short-term deal in January and has since contributed six goals and three assists in 21 appearances in all competitions.
Reflecting on the humiliating defeat, Neymar said: “It’s a shame to play like that in the Santos jersey. Everyone needs to lay their heads on their pillows and think about what they want to do.”
