In a poor 1-1 draw with Botafogo in the Brazilian Paulista Championship, Brazilian forward Neymar made his long-awaited return to his former club Santos.
Before kickoff on Wednesday, the jubilant and tearful fans lit up their mobile phones to give the striker, who left the team 12 years ago, a hero’s welcome.
Neymar, who was celebrating his 33rd birthday, started on the bench and came on after the break as Santos had taken the lead through Tiquinho Soares ‘ first-half penalty.
However, the forward struggled under the pressure of his first game in 16 months.
He tried to conjure up some of the magic that had placed him among the world’s best for five years at Barcelona, but it wasn’t enough.
Alexandre de Jesus scored the winner for Botafogo in the 67th minute. Four minutes later, Walshison was fouled on Neymar, but Santos were unable to exploit their superiority.
“I can’t find the words to express the feeling when you love something. After the game, Neymar said, “I love Santos very much and I can’t even describe the feeling I felt when I stepped out on the pitch today.”
“It was a very difficult game. My father was there on the side, even to my knowledge. I said, ‘ It’s a difficult game, they’re marking a lot at the back, they’re a team that defends a lot, a lot of hitting. ‘ And they found a ball and scored. I think it’s time for me to be patient and get some practice”, the player added.
After torn apart in his left knee during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October, Neymar was limited to seven appearances. He left Paris Saint Germain for Saudi Arabia.
The forward has stated that his remarkable career will come to an end as he tries to “play football once more,” as he has stated.
Neymar won six trophies during his first stint with Santos from 2009-2013, including the 2011 Copa Libertadores.
Source: Aljazeera
Leave a Reply