Santos FC were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw against Mirassol at the Vila Belmiro, despite a goal from Neymar. The match, part of the 34th round of the Brasileirão, saw Santos take the lead in the first half, only to be pegged back later. Coach Vojvoda expressed his disappointment at the result, highlighting the team's efforts but lamenting the dropped points.
Vojvoda's Reaction
"We had a good first half," Vojvoda said. "We started the second half well too, with clear chances. Some players felt physically drained. In the last 10 or 15 minutes, the team rallied. It's a draw that, given our situation, we had chances to deserve more. In these moments, it's about getting points."
Neymar's Opener
Fueled by the fans' support, Santos started strong. Lautaro Díaz set up Neymar with a brilliant through ball after just three minutes. Neymar calmly slotted the ball past the Mirassol goalkeeper, Walter. However, Neymar later conceded a penalty, allowing Mirassol to equalize.
- Santos showed more attacking intent but struggled in the final third.
- Neymar almost surprised Walter with a late effort, but the keeper made a great save.
- Brazão also made a crucial save, denying Carlos Eduardo in a one-on-one situation.
- Robinho Jr. had a chance in stoppage time but couldn't convert.
Neymar's Inspiration
Neymar revealed that he learned his composure in front of goal from Romário. "I'm not nervous in front of goal," Neymar said. "I wait 90 minutes for that. It's one of the things I learned from Romário. Inside the area, you have to be calmer than a surgeon."
This was Neymar's first goal in three months. Santos remain in a precarious position in the league table, just one point above the relegation zone.