Neymar’s Magical Return: A Corner Kick to Remember
Adriana Garcia
Feb 24, 2025, 04:57 AM ET
In the world of football, few players can captivate an audience quite like Neymar. The Brazilian superstar, known for his flair and creativity on the pitch, reminded everyone of his extraordinary talent with a stunning goal directly from a corner kick for Santos on Sunday. This moment of brilliance came during Santos’ 3-0 victory over Internacional de Limeira in the Paulista Championship, and it was a goal that left even the opposition fans in awe.
Let’s set the scene: It’s the 27th minute of the match, and Neymar steps up to take a corner kick. With a deft touch, he curls the ball from the left side, catching the rival goalkeeper, Igo Gabriel, completely off guard. The ball gracefully arcs through the air, kisses the far post, and nestles into the back of the net. The crowd erupts, and even those who had been booing him earlier can’t help but applaud the sheer audacity and skill of the strike.
For Neymar, this goal was more than just a spectacular moment; it was a statement. At 33 years old, and after a long injury layoff, he showed that he still has plenty of magic left in his boots. Earlier in the game, he had been jeered by the home crowd after assisting Tiquinho Soares from the same corner for the first goal of the match. But Neymar, ever the showman, had a response ready.
“I went to take the corner, they provoked me,” Neymar said after the game. “I asked them to sing louder, I struck the ball and got an assist. Then, the second time I went there [to the corner], they did it again, so I thought to myself: ‘Now I’m the one who’s going to score the goal’ [laughs]. I hit a great shot and managed to score my first ‘Olympic goal’ [goal direct from a corner].”
This goal marked Neymar’s second in six appearances since his return to boyhood club Santos in January. His decision to sign a six-month contract with Santos was driven by a desire to rediscover his form after injuries had limited him to just seven appearances for his former club, Al Hilal, over the past 18 months.
Neymar’s journey back to form is a testament to his resilience and determination. “I’m going game by game, getting ready and feeling better on the field,” he said on Sunday. “I’m not going back to being 19 years old, how much I miss it, but I feel better and more relaxed.”
As Neymar continues to regain his form, his eyes are set on a return to the national team. The 33-year-old, who has not featured for Brazil since sustaining an ACL knee injury in October 2023, is targeting a comeback for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Brazil coach Dorival Junior is set to name his squad on March 7 for the qualifiers against Colombia (March 20) and Argentina (March 25).
“Regarding the call-up, I’m there,” Neymar said. “Each player’s desire is to defend the country, and for me it has always been an honour. I dedicated myself to the team to the fullest. I enjoy being there, representing Brazil. If I have the opportunity to return, I will be very happy.”
As Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, Neymar’s potential return to the national team is eagerly anticipated by fans and pundits alike. His ability to change the course of a game with a single moment of brilliance is unmatched, and his presence on the field is a source of inspiration for his teammates.
- Neymar’s goal was his second in six appearances since returning to Santos.
- He signed a six-month contract with Santos in January.
- Neymar is Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 79 goals.
As we look ahead to the World Cup qualifiers, the prospect of Neymar donning the iconic yellow jersey once again is a tantalizing one. His journey back to the top is a story of resilience, passion, and an unwavering love for the beautiful game.
Originally Written by: Adriana Garcia
