Foreign Newspapers Praise Neymar’s Performance as Brazil’s Best Player
Neymar delivered a brilliant performance on November 3, 2023, leading Santos to a 3-0 victory over Juventude in the Campeonato Brasileiro. His hat-trick not only secured a crucial win but also lifted the team to 14th place, with 44 points, distancing them from relegation.
Neymar’s Historic Achievement
The iconic forward scored all three goals in just 17 minutes. This remarkable feat also marked Neymar’s 150th goal for Santos. This match was significant as it ended a nearly four-year drought for Neymar, who last achieved a hat-trick while playing for Paris Saint-Germain in April 2022.
International Praise for Neymar
Following his stunning performance, Neymar received accolades from international media. Various foreign newspapers highlighted his exceptional skills despite ongoing injury struggles.
Key Highlights from Major Newspapers
- Mundo Deportivo: Described Neymar as refusing to give up, despite injuries. The publication noted that he has been vital for Santos during the relegation battle.
- Às: Dubbed Neymar the best player in Brazil, recognizing his ability to perform even while injured. The article emphasized his five goals and one assist in the last three matches, showcasing his return to form.
- Olé: Called Neymar’s performance heroic, stating that he transformed from a target of criticism to a savior for Santos, courageously playing through a knee injury.
- Marca: Acknowledged his high level of play and pointed out the pressure he faces in trying to secure a place on Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Santos’ Outlook in the Campeonato Brasileiro
The victory against Juventude provides Santos with a much-needed boost as they continue their fight to stay in the top tier of Brazilian football. Their final match of the season is against Cruzeiro.
Final Match Requirements for Santos
- A win against Cruzeiro guarantees their spot in the elite division.
- An equal scoreline means they will rely on results from other matches — specifically, they need Vitória to either draw with or lose to São Paulo, or win by a margin of fewer than ten goals.
Neymar’s resurgence and contributions to Santos during this critical moment showcase his enduring talent and determination to succeed despite significant challenges.
