Neymar’s late double rescues Santos in dramatic draw with Flamengo

Santos came from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Flamengo in the Brazilian league, with Neymar scoring twice from the penalty spot within six minutes after coming on as a substitute.

The result moved Santos to 42 points in eighth place, while Flamengo remain top with 61 points. Flamengo had won five consecutive matches before being held by Santos.

Neymar, returning after recovering from his latest injury, was introduced at half-time with Santos trailing. He scored in the 81st and 87th minutes to complete a remarkable comeback and secure a valuable point for his side.

Flamengo had controlled much of the first half and took the lead through Danilo. The forward reached the penalty area at the end of a well-worked attack before finishing after receiving an excellent pass from Pedro.

The visitors doubled their advantage just before the interval. Carrascal delivered a precise cross and Paqueta rose to head the ball into the net.

Santos manager Cuca responded during the break by taking Coutinho off and sending Neymar on. The hosts pushed forward in search of a way back into the match, but Flamengo’s defence remained organised and difficult to break down.

The turning point came when Jorginho fell to the ground and stopped the ball with his arm. The referee initially awarded Flamengo a free-kick and showed the midfielder a yellow card, but was then called to the video assistant referee monitor.

After reviewing the incident, the referee awarded Santos a penalty and dismissed Jorginho with a straight red card. Flamengo were left to play with 10 men for the remainder of the match.

Neymar took responsibility for the spot-kick and sent Rossi the wrong way with a composed finish, giving Santos renewed belief.

That momentum soon produced another opening. Santos won a free-kick just outside the Flamengo penalty area, which Neymar took as part of a rehearsed routine. The move ended with a second penalty being awarded to Santos for an incident involving Gabigol.

Neymar again stepped up, and Rossi could not anticipate the direction of the striker’s shot. The goal completed the comeback and earned Santos a draw after they had appeared destined for defeat.

The referee added 14 minutes of stoppage time, during which Flamengo continued to cope with their numerical disadvantage. The match was also highlighted by AS, which focused on Neymar’s impact after his return and his two goals in a six-minute spell.