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Neymar Jr.'s Santos Return: A Game Changer?
25 Jul
Summary
- Neymar Jr. is anticipated to return to the pitch for Santos FC.
- The match will debut semi-automatic offside technology.
- Santos is 15th, while Chapecoense is last in the league standings.

The iconic Estádio Urbano Caldeira in Santos, Brazil, will host a significant Campeonato Brasileiro Série A match on Saturday, July 25, 2026, as Santos FC faces Chapecoense AF. This Round 20 fixture is scheduled for 21:30 UTC and is notable for potentially being one of the first league games to implement semi-automatic offside technology.
Currently, Santos FC occupies 15th place in the league with 21 points, while Chapecoense AF sits at the bottom in 20th with 9 points. Santos has experienced a recent dip in form, losing three of their last four Serie A matches. Conversely, Chapecoense has managed only one victory in the competition.
Adding to the anticipation, superstar Neymar Jr., aged 34, is reported to have returned to the Santos training center and is expected to feature in this match. This marks a significant potential boost for Santos, especially given their home advantage at Vila Belmiro, where they have won three of their last five games. Their previous encounter on January 28, 2026, saw Chapecoense secure a 4-2 victory, setting the stage for a compelling rematch.