In an impressive display, Neymar netted twice for Santos in a 3-1 win over Juventude, catching the eye of Brazil’s national team staff ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar’s Dazzling Performance Boosts World Cup Hopes
Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, showcased his skills in a dazzling 3-1 win for Santos against Juventude, scoring two goals that could help him secure a spot in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. The 33-year-old forward, fresh from a challenging stint in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Hilal, was eager to impress, and he did just that.
His first goal came with a composed finish from close range, and his second was a coolly converted penalty. The performance didn’t go unnoticed, as three members of the Brazil national team’s staff—Rodrigo Caetano (executive coordinator), Juan (technical manager), and Cristiano Nunes (physical trainer)—were present at Estadio do Morumbi to witness Neymar’s efforts.
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Brazil’s World Cup Future in Neymar’s Hands
Neymar, still recovering from knee surgery after a lengthy injury layoff, is working hard to prove his fitness ahead of next summer’s World Cup. His last appearance for Brazil was in October 2023, a match against Uruguay that saw him sidelined due to knee ligament damage.
After the match, Neymar spoke to reporters, emphasizing his desire to return to the Brazil fold: “I’m available, regardless of anything. I feel good as an athlete, so it depends entirely on [Carlo Ancelotti].”
The Bigger Picture: Brazil’s World Cup Ambitions
With Neymar needing to show form and fitness for Brazil’s new head coach Carlo Ancelotti, every performance counts. His two goals against Juventude are a statement to both the Brazil coaching staff and his own ambitions to represent his country at the World Cup next year.
