Neymar scored a stunning free kick to help Santos secure a 2-0 victory over RB Bragantino on Sunday at Vila Belmiro in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Paulistão.
The Peixe opened the scoring early in the match when Neymar (8′) took a tight free kick from the left side of the penalty area. The shot deflected, leaving goalkeeper Cleiton with no chance to make a save.
Although both teams created chances, neither dominated the first half, as players on both sides struggled with finishing.
After the break, Santos defender Pedro Henrique (51′) nearly scored when he headed the ball against the post, sending a wave of anxiety through the home fans.
Shortly after, Neymar took a corner kick that Cleiton attempted to punch away. The ball fell to Guilherme’s feet, who assisted João Schmidt (55′). Schmidt turned well under pressure in the box and doubled the lead.
Later in the match, Neymar (75′) appeared to hold his left hamstring. Despite this, he continued on the field until he was substituted by Gabriel Veron.
With this victory, Santos secured a place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Paulistão, where they will face either Corinthians or Palmeiras.
