Neymar scored a brace, saving Santos from defeat right after the 2026 World Cup.

Neymar scored both goals, with one coming from the penalty spot in the 89th minute, earning Santos a 2-2 draw against Chapecoense in the most recent matchday of the Brazilian league.

Santos hosted Chapecoense at Vila Belmiro aiming to secure all three points to strengthen their position in the relegation battle. However, the home side endured a difficult match and only avoided defeat thanks to a late moment of brilliance from Neymar.

Despite not creating a truly convincing display in the first half, Santos still took the lead after a well-worked combination between Neymar and Álvaro Barreal. The number 10 star played a one-two with his teammate before finishing accurately, sending the hosts into the break with an advantage.

The situation changed quickly in the second half. The personnel adjustments made by Chapecoense coach Rafael Lacerda paid off as Marcinho and Giovanni Augusto both contributed to the equalizer in the 51st minute. Santos' defense reacted slowly, allowing Marcinho to put the ball into the net.

Just 11 minutes later, Chapecoense completed the comeback. From a hesitant defensive situation, João Ananias accidentally scored an own goal, putting Santos behind 1-2 at Vila Belmiro.

The home side then pushed forward but struggled to create clear chances. In the 89th minute, Bruno Matias fouled Caballero in the box, giving Santos a penalty. Neymar calmly beat the goalkeeper, completing his brace and salvaging a point for "Peixe".

However, Neymar also received a yellow card after arguing with Bruno Tubarão. Having accumulated enough cards, he will miss the match against Athletico on August 9.

The draw gave Santos 22 points, keeping them outside the relegation zone. Meanwhile, Chapecoense have only 10 points, remaining alone at the bottom of the table. Despite avoiding defeat, Santos players still faced jeers from the stands after the final whistle.