Santos Football Club secured its place in the semifinals of the Campeonato Paulista with a convincing 2-0 victory over Red Bull Bragantino on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the renowned Vila Belmiro stadium. Neymar, the star of the match, continued to reaffirm his influence since returning to the club, scoring the opening goal and providing the assist for the second.
The match kicked off with intense energy as both teams looked to dominate the field. Santos quickly asserted itself, with Neymar, wearing the number 10 jersey, making his mark just seven minutes in. After being fouled near the edge of the area by Pedro Henrique, Neymar took the free kick himself. His powerful shot, which was slightly deflected, caught the opposing goalkeeper Cleiton off guard, putting Santos 1-0 up.
"Bola parada decide jogo, sabemos disso," Neymar said after the game, reflecting on the significance of set pieces and their role in the match. The Brazilian forward emphasized how these plays are staples of their training regime.
The atmosphere remained electric as the first half progressed, with both teams vying for control. Red Bull Bragantino attempted to respond but struggled to break through the solid defensive line of Santos. An opportunity came for Bragantino when Pedro Henrique's header hit the crossbar early in the second half, nearly leveling the score.
Despite some pressure from Bragantino, it was Santos who doubled their lead shortly after the interval. Neymar’s corner kick was poorly handled by Cleiton, falling straight to João Schmidt, who calmly turned and slotted the ball home, extending Santos' lead to 2-0.
"Obviamente não queremos pegar os times mais fortes, mas eles têm mais medo do que eu (de me enfrentar)," Neymar humorously mentioned, reflecting on the upcoming semifinal matchup. His confidence was palpable as he expressed eagerness for the next challenge.
Santos maintained control for the remainder of the match, effectively shutting down any serious threats from Bragantino. The team’s resilience was on full display, showcasing their ability to withstand pressure and capitalize on set chances.
Neymar’s substitution late in the game raised some eyebrows, as he indicated discomfort with his left thigh. Despite this concern, the club reassured fans it was not serious, merely fatigue from the intense match. He is expected to be fit for the upcoming fixtures.
Looking forward, Santos will face either Palmeiras or Corinthians in the semifinals based on the outcome of the São Paulo vs. Novorizontino match scheduled for March 3. The anticipation is high as Santos not only seeks to reclaim glory after years without lifting the state championship but also aims to continue Neymar's impressive record, having reached the finals every year he played from 2009 to 2013, winning three titles during his initial run.
With this victory, Santos displayed not just individual brilliance from Neymar but collective prowess as well, proving they are serious contenders for the championship this year. The next match promises to be just as thrilling as the team prepares to take on one of its fiercest rivals.