The stage is set for another electrifying chapter in the storied rivalry between Santos and São Paulo, but all eyes are on the Vila Belmiro sidelines this Wednesday night. Neymar, the talismanic forward and Santos’ marquee signing, won’t be suiting up for the second round of the Brasileirão Betano. While fans hoped for a triumphant return, the club confirmed that Neymar continues to recover from knee surgery and will not feature in the squad for this clásico. The absence of Brazil’s superstar has cast a long shadow over the clash, but there’s no shortage of storylines as both teams gear up for a pivotal early-season showdown.
Neymar’s road back to the pitch has been nothing short of grueling. After undergoing surgery on his left knee meniscus on December 22, 2025, he’s been hard at work in rehabilitation. Social media has offered glimpses of his relentless regimen—strength training, cardio, and a focus on regaining peak fitness. For Neymar, the mission is clear: be ready for the 2026 World Cup and prove to Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti that he belongs on football’s grandest stage. "Without pain, there is no gain," Neymar posted recently, a testament to his determination and the support he’s received from fans and the club alike.
The club’s faith in their star is unwavering. Santos recently extended Neymar’s contract through December 31, 2026, a move that signals their long-term commitment. Reflecting on his tumultuous 2025, Neymar shared, “Moments of joy and overcoming that I could only face with your love. The year 2026 has arrived, and my destiny cannot be different. Santos is my place. I’m at home, I’m sure, and I’m happy.” Those words resonate deeply with a fanbase eager to see their hero back in action.
But for now, patience is the order of the day. Neymar’s last appearance came on December 7, 2025, in the Brasileirão finale against Cruzeiro. Even then, he played through pain, desperate to help Santos avoid relegation. His efforts paid off—five goals in the final five matches, eight goals and one assist overall in 20 league games. It was a late-season surge that not only secured Santos’ top-flight status but also reminded everyone of his enduring class and influence.
As for Wednesday’s clássico, coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda has been hard at work on the training ground, drilling tactics and set pieces in anticipation of São Paulo’s visit. The likely Santos starting eleven features Gabriel Brazão in goal; a defensive line of Igor Vinícius, Adonis Frías, Luan Peres, and Vinicius Lira; João Schmidt (captain) and Zé Rafael anchoring the midfield; and an attacking quartet of Barreal, Gabriel Menino, Rony, and Gabigol. Tiquinho Soares, another notable absence, is still working his way back, while Thaciano is in physical transition and Gustavo Henrique remains with the medical staff.
São Paulo, under the guidance of Argentine coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda, arrives in fine form. The Tricolor opened their Brasileirão campaign with a win and have strung together impressive results against Flamengo, Corinthians, and São Bernardo. Their likely 5-3-2 formation is built for defensive solidity and quick transitions, with Rafael captaining from goal and a backline designed to frustrate Santos’ attack. The midfield trio of E. Díaz, D. Bobadilla, and M. Antônio will look to control tempo, while Danielzinho, J. Calleri, and Luciano provide the attacking threat.
Historically, the San-São rivalry is one of the fiercest in Brazilian football. Over 320 matches have been contested, with São Paulo holding the edge at approximately 141 wins to Santos’ 110, alongside 76 draws. Yet, matches at Vila Belmiro are often tightly contested, and Santos has a knack for making life difficult for their rivals on home turf. The atmosphere is expected to be electric—tickets for the Santos sector are nearly sold out, and security has been bolstered for visiting São Paulo supporters. The stadium will be at full capacity, a cauldron of noise and anticipation.
Both teams have plenty to prove. Santos, coming off a goalless draw against Bragantino in their Brasileirão debut and a 4-2 defeat to Chapecoense in a recent friendly, are searching for their first league victory. Defensive lapses have been a concern, and the absence of Neymar only amplifies the pressure on the rest of the squad to step up. São Paulo, on the other hand, are looking to maintain their early momentum and cement their place near the top of the table.
Weather could play a role, too. The forecast for Santos on match night is partly cloudy with temperatures hovering between 24°C and 28°C—typical for the coastal city—with a chance of isolated showers. The Vila Belmiro pitch is in good condition, so fans can expect a fast-paced contest unless the rain intensifies.
Off the pitch, the CBF has assigned an experienced officiating crew, with VAR on hand to review any contentious decisions. Given the high stakes and the rivalry’s history, every call will be scrutinized by players, coaches, and fans alike. The pressure is on for the referees to keep tempers in check and the game flowing smoothly.
Looking ahead, there’s cautious optimism that Neymar could return to the matchday squad as early as Sunday, February 9, when Santos faces Noroeste in the penultimate round of the Paulistão. Until then, the focus is on collective effort and tactical discipline. Santos’ hopes rest on the likes of Gabigol and Barreal to provide the attacking spark, while São Paulo’s Calleri and Luciano are tipped as potential match-winners for the visitors.
For supporters, the absence of Neymar is a bitter pill, but also a reminder of football’s unpredictability. Can Santos rally in his absence and secure a morale-boosting win, or will São Paulo’s strong form carry them to another victory? With so much at stake so early in the season, one thing is certain: the latest edition of San-São promises drama, passion, and the kind of football that keeps fans coming back for more.
As kickoff approaches, all eyes turn to Vila Belmiro. The rivalry endures, the stakes are high, and while Neymar’s return is on the horizon, tonight it’s about two proud teams chasing glory in one of Brazil’s most cherished fixtures.