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Neymar Jr. returns for Santos in crucial relegation battle
16 Aug
Summary
- Neymar Jr. expected to play for Santos against Vasco da Gama.
- Match is a vital relegation battle in Brazilian Serie A 2026.
- Santos holds a slight edge in recent form and attacking statistics.

All eyes will be on Estádio São Januário on Sunday, August 16, 2026, as Vasco da Gama hosts Santos FC in a pivotal Brazilian Serie A 2026 fixture. This match is a crucial relegation battle, with both clubs fighting to escape the bottom of the league standings. Neymar Jr., 34, is expected to play for Santos, offering a significant boost to his boyhood club.
Santos, currently 17th, faces 18th-placed Vasco da Gama in a classic 'six-pointer' with survival on the line. While Vasco has struggled with wins, Santos arrives with notably better recent form, securing more victories and showing greater attacking intent in their last eight matches. Historically, Santos secured a 2-1 victory over Vasco earlier this season.