Neymar Shines as Santos Defeats Red Bull Bragantino to Reach Paulista Semifinals

Santos secured a spot in the semifinals of the Campeonato Paulista after defeating Red Bull Bragantino 2-0 on Sunday night at Vila Belmiro, Santos (SP).

Neymar led the way with a free-kick goal, while João Schmidt sealed the victory, ensuring Santos’ second consecutive semifinal appearance in the tournament. The match also marked the debut of Argentine signing Benjamín Rollheiser, who came off the bench in the second half.

Meanwhile, Deivid Washington’s much-anticipated return was postponed following Neymar’s arrival. Santos now aims to end a nine-year drought without a state title, their last victory dating back to 2016 under Dorival Júnior. Last year, they came close but finished as runners-up.

With Palmeiras and Corinthians already through to the semifinals, Santos awaits the winner of Monday’s São Paulo vs. Novorizontino clash at Morumbi to determine their next opponent.

Santos Secure Semifinal Spot

The game started with an early breakthrough for Santos in the eighth minute. Neymar earned a free kick near the edge of the box and converted it with a shot that deflected off Bragantino’s defense before finding the net.

Bragantino responded in the 21st minute with Juninho Capixaba delivering a cross to Vinicinho, whose stylish backheel attempt was easily saved by Gabriel Brazão.

Santos nearly doubled their lead later in the first half through a swift counterattack involving Neymar, Tiquinho, and Soteldo. However, Guilherme’s shot went over the bar.

Another chance came in the 41st minute when Tiquinho set up Guilherme again, but his poorly struck shot missed wide. Soteldo forced Bragantino goalkeeper Cleiton into a crucial save just before halftime.

Bragantino began the second half aggressively, hitting the post within six minutes through Pedro Henrique’s header. Santos quickly regained control, though, as Neymar’s corner led to João Schmidt scoring from close range after Cleiton’s save fell into his path.

Neymar came close to adding another goal with a long-range left-footed shot in the 27th minute, but Cleiton denied him again. Escobar also missed a chance shortly after. The rest of the match saw little action as Santos comfortably advanced to the semifinals.