Santos vs. Botafogo: Lineup, Neymar’s Role, Key Absences – Oct 26, 2025
Santos faces Botafogo in a crucial match on October 26, 2025. This encounter takes place at the Estádio Nilton Santos in Rio de Janeiro as part of the 30th round of the Brasileirão. The game is set to kick off at 4 PM (Brasília time) and will be broadcasted on Globo and Premiere.
Santos’ Current Standing
After a disappointing 1-0 loss at home against Vitória, Santos sits in 16th place in the league, holding 31 points. They share the same score with Vitória, which places them just outside of the relegation zone. The recent defeat marked another setback for the team, which has had mixed results in their last few matches.
Key Player Updates
- Neymar: The star forward is recovering from a thigh injury. He is expected to return by late October or early November.
- Zé Rafael: The midfielder will miss this match due to suspension after receiving a third yellow card.
- Rincón: Expected to return from injury for this game.
- João Schmidt: Returns from suspension, potentially strengthening the squad.
Santos’ Potential Lineup Against Botafogo
Under the guidance of coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda, Santos has made some tactical changes. The modified formation includes three defenders, while Guilherme will start on the bench. The expected lineup is as follows:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Gabriel Brazão |
| Defenders | Adonis Frías, Luan Peres, Alexis Duarte |
| Midfielders | Igor Vinícius, João Schmidt, Victor Hugo, Rollheiser, Souza |
| Forwards | Barreal, Lautaro Díaz |
Injury and Suspension Updates
The squad faces several absences due to injuries and suspensions:
- Injured: Neymar
- Suspended: Zé Rafael
- Pending Cautions: João Basso, Luisão, Mayke, Igor Vinícius, Souza, Barreal
Upcoming Matches for Santos
Santos’ schedule remains challenging, including the following fixtures:
- October 26 – 4 PM: Botafogo vs. Santos
- November 1 – 4 PM: Santos vs. Fortaleza
- November 6 – 9 PM: Santos vs. Palmeiras
- November 9 – 6:30 PM: Flamengo vs. Santos
- November 15 – 9 PM: Santos vs. Palmeiras
Performances and Results
Here’s a snapshot of Santos’ recent matches:
- October 20 – Santos 0 x 1 Vitória
- October 15 – Santos 3 x 1 Corinthians
- October 5 – Ceará 3 x 0 Santos
- October 1 – Santos 1 x 1 Grêmio
- September 28 – Bragantino 2 x 2 Santos
As Santos prepares for their match against Botafogo, every point is crucial in their fight to avoid relegation and improve their standing in the Brasileirão.
