Kenya Sport

Neymar Criticizes Santos Fans After Comeback Win Over Macara in Copa Sudamericana

Neymar voiced his frustration toward some Santos supporters who booed him during their 2-1 comeback win against Macara in the Copa Sudamericana round-of-16 first leg at Vila Belmiro.

The Brazilian forward provided two assists in the match but faced criticism from a section of the crowd after a misplaced pass. Neymar urged fans with a negative attitude to stay away rather than spread pessimism during the game.

Match Highlights: Santos Stages Comeback

Macara took an early lead through Franco Posse inside the first four minutes, surprising the home fans. Neymar then played a key role by assisting Gabriel Barbosa’s equalizer just before halftime. Later, he delivered another assist from a corner kick that William Arao converted in the 75th minute to secure the victory for Santos.

Neymar's Message to Critical Supporters

“What I was saying out there is that we were losing 1-0, and I know the fans have been suffering for many years... but if you’re going to keep thinking about that and come to the stadium with a negative mindset, it’s better to stay home. I told the guy up there: instead of criticising, there’s still 60 minutes left to play, support us... encourage us. Then we turn the game around, I come over to get some water, and he’s making a heart sign in the stands... it’s easy to be a Santos fan like that... Only liking the guy when he’s winning.”

Neymar’s outburst highlighted his disappointment with impatient fans who fail to back the team fully during tough moments.

Player Performance and Team Outlook

This performance extended Neymar’s impressive run, bringing his total to 13 goals and eight assists in the last 24 matches. Meanwhile, teammate Gabigol experienced frustration as two of his goals were ruled offside, and Macara’s goalkeeper Rodrigo Rodriguez made a crucial save against Neymar’s stoppage-time free kick.

Despite these challenges, Santos holds an important advantage going into the second leg.

Upcoming Challenge in Ecuador

Santos will travel to Ambato next week for the return match against Macara. A draw in this away fixture will be enough for them to progress to the quarter-finals. The altitude in Ecuador is expected to test the team physically, and maintaining Neymar’s fitness and form will be vital as they aim to continue their run in the 2026 Copa Sudamericana.

  • Date: 14 August 2026
  • Competition: Copa Sudamericana Round-of-16 First Leg
  • Result: Santos 2 - 1 Macara
  • Key Players: Neymar (2 assists), Gabriel Barbosa (goal), William Arao (goal)
  • Upcoming Matches: Macara vs Santos (Second leg in Ambato)

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