Neymar marked his long awaited return for Santos with two goals and a playful message for his critics as the Brazilian side battled back to earn a 2 2 draw against bottom placed Chapecoense on Saturday.
The experienced forward delivered an impressive performance after spending two and a half months on the sidelines, helping Santos recover from behind in a result that could prove valuable in their fight to avoid relegation from Brazil’s top division.
Despite claiming a point, Santos remain under pressure, sitting just one point above the relegation zone as the campaign enters a crucial stage.
The 34 year old has faced repeated criticism in recent months over his activities away from football. Fresh questions were raised earlier in the week after he was seen participating in a poker tournament while Santos were playing a Copa Sudamericana fixture in Venezuela.
Neymar appeared to address those comments during his celebrations. After scoring his first goal, he made a card dealing gesture before walking to the corner flag and pretending to take a golf swing, a light hearted response that many viewed as a message to those who have questioned his lifestyle.
The match also marked Neymar’s first appearance since Brazil’s disappointing World Cup campaign came to an end. The country’s all time leading goalscorer announced his retirement from international football after the five time world champions were eliminated by Norway in the round of 16.
Although Santos are still battling to stay clear of the drop zone, Neymar’s return and match winning influence offer renewed hope that the club can turn its season around in the weeks ahead.
