Neymar's Substitution Error Sparks Controversy in Santos Match
Neymar Mistakenly Subbed Off In Shocking Fourth Official Blunder, Video Goes Viral
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In a shocking officiating blunder during Santos' match against Coritiba on May 17, 2026, Neymar was mistakenly substituted instead of Gonzalo Escobar. The error occurred when the fourth official displayed Neymar's number on the substitution board, leading to his furious exit from the game, which ended in a 3-0 loss for Santos. This incident overshadowed Neymar's final match before the announcement of Brazil's World Cup squad.
- 01Neymar was substituted in the 3-0 loss to Coritiba, which was his last game before the World Cup squad announcement.
- 02The fourth official incorrectly displayed Neymar's number 10 instead of Gonzalo Escobar's number 31 on the substitution board.
- 03Neymar expressed his anger by showing the substitution slip to the cameras, which confirmed the mistake.
- 04Despite Neymar's protests and evidence of the error, the substitution was upheld by officials.
- 05This incident adds to the controversy surrounding Neymar's fitness and performance ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
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During Santos FC's match against Coritiba in the Brazilian Serie A on May 17, 2026, a significant officiating error occurred when Neymar was mistakenly substituted instead of Gonzalo Escobar. As Santos sought to turn the game around, the fourth official displayed Neymar's No. 10 on the substitution board, leading to confusion and frustration. Neymar, visibly stunned, left the pitch angrily after realizing the mistake, holding up the substitution slip that clearly indicated Escobar's number 31. Despite Neymar's protests and the evident error, the officials did not reverse the decision, resulting in Santos losing 3-0. This match was particularly crucial as it was Neymar's final opportunity to impress before Carlo Ancelotti announces the Brazil national team's squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The incident has sparked widespread debate regarding officiating standards and Neymar's readiness for the tournament, especially as he has struggled with injuries in recent years.
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The incident raises questions about officiating standards in Brazilian football and could affect Neymar's selection for the national team.
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