Santos FC secured their place in the semifinals of the Paulistão on Sunday, following a solid 2-0 victory over Red Bull Bragantino, with forward Neymar highlighting the team's prowess during set pieces as pivotal for their success. "We are happy with the victories and the set-pieces we've trained for. A championship team is like this. Set-pieces can decide the game. Everyone who studies and works in football understands this. Our team has been demonstrating this," Neymar stated after the match. He emphasized the importance of training, saying, "We train hard and it shows in the matches."
Neymar has been instrumental since returning to Santos, contributing to the team’s recent achievements with three goals and three assists across six matches. His performance against Red Bull was no different; he opened the scoring with a skillfully taken free kick and also provided the corner kick leading to the second goal. The forward expressed confidence as Santos heads toward the semifinals, stating, "Whatever team we face, we know it will be tough. But we are prepared to take on any team."
Coach Pedro Caixinha echoed Neymar's sentiments about set pieces. After the match, he commented on the significance of these training routines, noting, "Set pieces proved decisive for us once more. Red Bull created many problems for us in the first half, but we managed to nullify their strength, forcing them to alter their approach as the game progressed." He elaborated on their defensive strategy, explaining their adjustments throughout the game, emphasizing the need for improved finishing opportunities.
Caixinha acknowledged the strengths and weaknesses displayed during the match, citing, "The game was far from easy. Our back line was exposed, but we also created chances. Yet, our finishing wasn't up to par. That was somewhat evident." The coach’s remarks highlighted their defensive struggles but also reflected on the positive aspects of maintaining possession and control.
This victory marks Santos's fourth consecutive win in the Paulistão, which includes two matches without conceding any goals. Santos is now focused on their semifinal matchup, awaiting the outcome of the last quarterfinal bout between São Paulo and Novorizontino to determine their opponent. The anticipation is palpable, especially as the team aims to break their nine-year title drought, with their last state championship victory coming back in 2016.
Despite the success, Neymar's comfort has come under scrutiny; Caixinha confirmed the player would be reassessed after reporting discomfort. "It was something significant, but we have to wait responsibly. I hope everything will be well by Wednesday when we resume training," Caixinha said. The coach expressed both concern and optimism about Neymar's condition, underlying the star player’s importance to the team's aspirations.
Reflecting on the current season, Caixinha noted, "Not every game can be played beautifully; sometimes we need to adapt and be pragmatic, which our team showed today." This adaptability has been key for Santos as they progress through the competition and deal with various challenges.
Neymar, who remains one of Brazil's most celebrated athletes, continues to shine and draw attention back to Santos FC since his return, affirming his role as both leader and playmaker on the field. His infectious spirit and commitment to the game resonate with fans, who are excited about the club’s resurgence. He quipped humorously about their semifinal hopes, saying, "I don’t choose who to play against; they can worry about us!"
The match not only showcased Santos's tactical improvements but also revitalized the team’s confidence. With the Carnival season approaching, the players and coaching staff are reminded of the broader cultural significance of their success at this time. Caixinha remarked, "We must enjoy what life offers, especially during such important moments for Brazil like Carnival. After the celebrations, we'll fine-tune our match preparations."
Santos FC continues to build momentum as they set their eyes on winning the Paulistão, underscoring the importance of teamwork, strategy, and resilient performances on the pitch. The upcoming semifinal will be pivotal as they strive to capture the championship title.