Brazilian star Neymar delivered a stunning performance on Wednesday, scoring a hat-trick that led Santos to a crucial 3-0 victory over Juventude in the domestic league. The win helps lift his boyhood club away from the looming threat of relegation with just one match remaining in the season.
Neymar found the net in the 6th and 65th minutes, before adding a third goal from the penalty spot in the 73rd minute. With this trio of goals, he reached an impressive milestone of 150 goals for the club where his professional journey began.
Speaking to the club’s media, the 33-year-old forward expressed his joy:
“I am very happy to reach this number. I thank all my teammates who have been part of this team over the years.”
This hat-trick marks Neymar’s first since April 2022, when he scored three goals for Paris Saint-Germain in a 6-1 away win against Clermont in the French league.
The Brazilian forward recently returned from a right thigh injury sustained in mid-September, making his comeback in early November. Since returning, he has scored five goals in the last three matches, showcasing a strong resurgence in form.
Santos currently sits 14th with 44 points, just two points above Vitória in 17th place—the first relegation spot. The team, once home to the legendary Pelé, faces a tough test on Sunday in an away match against third-place Cruzeiro as they fight to secure their place in the top division.
