Santos Drops Points Despite Neymar’s 7 Shots and Botafogo’s Red Card

Santos hosted Botafogo SP on Matchday 7 of the Paulista A1 in Brazil on Wednesday(05th Feb) while playing at the Urbano Caldeira Stadium, Santos, with Neymar in the squad, had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

This match was highly anticipated by Santos fans and Brazilian football lovers. After choosing to 'return home' to Brazil, the 33-year-old star footballer Neymar made his first appearance in this game.

Group B table toppers Santos included Neymar in the squad and gave him the number 10 jersey. The Brazilian national team captain came on in the second half, replacing a teammate in the 46th minute, and made a positive impact.

However, Neymar’s presence didn’t guarantee a win. Pedro Caixinha’s side had to settle for a 1-1 draw after Tiquinho scored in the 38th minute, and Alexandre Jesus equalized in the 67th.

Many expected the hosts to win, not only because of Neymar’s return but also because they played in front of their home crowd. They had a strong opportunity when Botafogo went down to 10 men after Wallison received a second yellow card in the 71st minute.

Neymar played 45 minutes plus stoppage time in his 'homecoming' match. Although he didn’t score, his performance showed that he still has plenty to offer. He took seven shots throughout the match, according to FotMob statistics.

Of those seven shots, defenders blocked five. Only one was on target, but it didn’t result in a goal. Neymar also created two chances for his teammates.