Today : Apr 19, 2025
Sports
17 April 2025

Neymar Returns As Santos Hosts Atletico Mineiro

Both teams seek first win in crucial Brasileirao matchup

Santos will face off against Atletico Mineiro in Matchday 4 of the Brasileirao 2025, with both teams eager to secure their first win of the season. Santos, currently sitting at the bottom of the table with just one point from three matches, has struggled with losses to Fluminense and Vasco da Gama, alongside a draw against Bahia. Meanwhile, Atletico Mineiro has fared slightly better, managing only two points after a season-opening loss to Gremio and back-to-back draws with Sao Paulo and Vitoria. With both clubs desperate to snap their early-season slumps, fans can expect an intense battle for all three points.

The match is set to take place on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the Estádio Urbano Caldeira in São Paulo, kicking off at 8:30 PM ET. For viewers in the United States, the game will be broadcast live on Premiere, providing fans the opportunity to catch all the action.

As Santos prepares for this crucial encounter, the return of star player Neymar adds an extra layer of intrigue. After missing four matches due to injury, Neymar will be back in the starting lineup, seeking to reignite his scoring touch. He last found the back of the net on March 2 against Bragantino and has since been limited to just 45 minutes in the defeat against Fluminense. Santos fans are hopeful that Neymar's presence will help turn the tide for a team that has only managed one point from its first three games.

Atletico Mineiro, on the other hand, will look to exploit Santos' vulnerabilities. Despite their own struggles, the team has shown some stability, especially in their recent Copa Sudamericana matches, where they secured a 4-0 victory over Deportivo Iquique. Their last league match ended in a 2-2 draw against Vitoria, leaving them in 16th place with two points. The tactical approach of Atletico Mineiro tends to favor a more conservative style, particularly in away matches, where they often prioritize control over risk-taking.

In terms of head-to-head statistics, Santos has historically performed well at home against Atletico Mineiro, winning three of the last four encounters at the Estádio Urbano Caldeira. However, recent form indicates that both teams will approach this match with caution, especially given their current standings in the league. Santos has not won in their last four matches, while Atletico Mineiro has not lost in their last four outings.

Both teams are expected to field strong lineups. Santos is likely to utilize a 4-2-3-1 formation, featuring goalkeeper Gabriel Brazão, defenders Leonardo Godoy, Gil, José Ivaldo, and Gonzalo Escobar, with Neymar leading the attack alongside Guilherme and Tiquinho. Atletico Mineiro is anticipated to counter with their own formidable lineup, including goalkeeper Everson and star striker Hulk, who has been pivotal in their recent performances.

As the match approaches, the stakes are high for both sides. Santos must find a way to capitalize on their home advantage and break free from the bottom of the table, while Atletico Mineiro seeks to build on their recent performances and finally secure a victory in the league. Fans will be watching closely, eager to see if Neymar can inspire Santos to their first win of the season.

In summary, the clash between Santos and Atletico Mineiro promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams strive to turn their fortunes around in the Brasileirao 2025. With Neymar back in action and both sides desperate for points, expect a fierce contest that could set the tone for the rest of the season.