Neymar Enters Santos' All-Time Top Scorers List, Boosts World Cup Hopes
Forward Neymar scored two goals to lead Santos to a 2-1 victory over Vasco da Gama in the Brazilian Football League. This match marked the 34-year-old player's third appearance this year, following his recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury that required knee surgery. The Brazilian star is now focused on regaining full technical and physical fitness ahead of upcoming international commitments.
These two goals helped Neymar ascend into the top ten all-time scorers in Santos' history, as he continues his journey to reclaim his customary form after a long absence from the pitch that began in October 2023. Commenting on the reactions to his performance, Neymar said, "Last week some said I was the worst player in the world, but today I scored two goals, and that's what matters. One day some people think you're not good and should retire, and on another day they demand you go to the World Cup."
Regarding international aspirations, Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti is closely monitoring the player's physical condition before finalizing Brazil's squad for the World Cup. Ancelotti had previously stated that he would only call up players who are 100% physically fit, which places Neymar under the challenge of proving his capability after the surgery he underwent last December.
Neymar holds a prominent place in Brazilian football history as the national team's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, while legend Pelé remains at the forefront of Santos' historical goal-scorers with 1061 goals. Through his continuous appearances in the local league, the forward aims to confirm he has overcome the effects of the long-term injury that sidelined him and secure his place in his country's starting lineup.
