22 Jul 2026
Why Neymar did not play for Santos against UCV and when he will return
Neymar was rested for Santos’ emphatic win over UCV and appeared at a poker tournament on the same day. Cuca confirmed the forward for the match against Chapecoense.
Why Neymar did not play against UCV
Neymar did not feature in Santos’ victory over UCV because he was rested. His absence was a decision by the coaching staff, who left the forward out of the match. Santos won without him, but the absence of the squad’s biggest name caught supporters’ attention.
Poker tournament sparks debate
On the day of the emphatic win over UCV, Neymar took part in a poker tournament. The player’s presence at the event sparked debate because he had not been included in Santos’ squad for the match. The episode attracted attention on social media, particularly because it coincided with the club’s fixture.
Cuca confirms Neymar against Chapecoense
Cuca confirmed that Neymar will be available for Santos against Chapecoense. The forward should therefore return to the team in the club’s next match after being rested against UCV.
What Neymar’s return means for Santos
With Neymar back, Santos regain a player who missed the emphatic win over UCV. Cuca’s confirmation ends any doubt about a longer absence: the forward was rested for one match and is expected to return against Chapecoense.
Related pre-match analysis
Keep reading
Analysis: PK Sport · our methodology
Analysis based on public data and market signals. For analysis only — not betting advice.