Neymar in Tears After Santos’ Historic Loss and Fan Protest

Just 30 minutes ago, reports emerged that Neymar Jr., captain of Santos FC, was left in tears following a devastating 6-0 defeat to Vasco da Gama in the Brazilian Serie A. The loss, which marked the worst of Neymar’s career and the first time Santos conceded six goals at home in a top-flight match, was compounded by an unprecedented protest from Santos fans, who turned their backs on the team in a powerful display of frustration. This dramatic reaction from the supporters, coupled with the team’s dismal performance, has plunged Santos into a crisis, with head coach Cleber Xavier sacked hours after the final whistle.

The match at Estádio Urbano Caldeira saw Santos unravel, particularly in the second half, as Vasco, led by former Liverpool and Barcelona star Philippe Coutinho, who scored twice, capitalized on their opponent’s weaknesses. Neymar, who played the full 90 minutes, expressed profound shame and disappointment in post-match interviews. “I’m completely disappointed with our game,” he told Brazilian media, as reported by The Independent. “The fans have the right to protest in all sorts of ways, obviously without physical violence. But cursing and insulting people today is perfectly acceptable. I feel incredibly ashamed; I’ve never experienced anything like this in my life.” His emotional response, marked by tears, underscored the gravity of the defeat, which left Santos just two points above the relegation zone after 19 matches.

The fans’ protest, where thousands turned their backs to the pitch, was a symbolic gesture of their disillusionment with the team’s performance. Social media posts on X captured the moment, with one user noting, “Santos fans turned their backs in protest, and immediately after the game, coach Cléber Xavier was sacked” (@FanbaseXtra). This reaction reflects the deep connection between Santos, a club with a storied history tied to legends like Pelé, and its passionate fanbase, who felt betrayed by the team’s lackluster display. Neymar himself acknowledged their right to express anger, stating, “It’s a disgrace to play that kind of game wearing a Santos jersey.”

Neymar’s return to his boyhood club in January 2025, after an injury-plagued stint with Al Hilal, was meant to mark a triumphant homecoming. However, persistent injuries and inconsistent performances have hampered his impact, with only three goals in 11 appearances this season. The 33-year-old, Brazil’s all-time top scorer, now faces mounting pressure as Santos teeter on the brink of relegation, a fate the club suffered for the first time in 2023. With his contract extended until December 2025, Neymar’s focus remains on regaining form for the 2026 World Cup, but this historic loss and the fans’ visceral reaction have cast a shadow over his return.

As Santos prepare for their next match against Bahia, the club must regroup without their head coach and with a wounded Neymar, whose tears reflect both personal and collective anguish.