SAO PAULO: Neymar struck twice as Santos FC beat CR Vasco da Gama 2-1 in the league on Thursday, ending his recent goal drought and strengthening his case for a return to Brazil’s World Cup squad.
The 34-year-old had not scored since December and is still regaining full fitness after knee surgery. The match marked only his third appearance of the year and his second full 90 minutes.
“Last week they said I was the worst player in the world. Today I scored two goals, and that’s what matters,” Neymar told SporTV. “That’s football. One day you’re no good or ‘retired’; the next, people say you have to go to the World Cup.”
Brazil’s all-time leading scorer has not played for the national team since October 2023 due to a series of injuries. Coach Carlo Ancelotti has said he will select only players who are fully match-fit.
The World Cup will be held in Canada, Mexico and the United States from June 11 to July 19.
