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Neymar Jr Leads Santos Against Macará in Sudamericana
13 Aug
Summary
- Santos secured a 2-1 first-leg lead against CD Macará.
- Neymar Jr scored a crucial penalty goal in the match.
- The CONMEBOL Sudamericana is the only major trophy missing for Neymar.
Santos FC has taken a crucial 2-1 lead in their CONMEBOL Sudamericana 2026 Round of 16 tie against Ecuadorian side CD Macará. The first leg, played at Estádio Urbano Caldeira, saw goals from Gabriel Barbosa and a decisive penalty converted by Neymar Jr, securing a vital advantage for the Brazilian club. The return leg is scheduled for August 20 in Ambato, Ecuador.
Neymar Jr, who rejoined his boyhood club in January 2025, has been actively participating in both domestic and continental competitions. He played a role in the previous round's victory over Universidad Central. This tournament represents a significant objective for both Santos and Neymar, as the CONMEBOL Sudamericana is the only major South American club trophy missing from his illustrious career, despite having previously won the Copa Libertadores and Recopa Sudamericana with Santos.
CD Macará enters the knockout stage as the undefeated winners of Group A. Santos advanced to this round after an 8-3 aggregate win over Universidad Central in the playoffs. Gabriel Barbosa leads Santos in the tournament scoring with four goals, while Neymar Jr has contributed two goals so far.
