KUCHING: Brazillian forward Neymar kept Santos alive in their fight for survival with a second-half hat-trick in a 3-0 win over Juventude at Vila Belmiro Stadium in Santos, Brazil, on Wednesday.
The 33-year-old, who has been playing through a meniscus injury in his left knee, struck all three goals within 17 minutes to hand the home side a crucial victory in their battle against relegation from the Brasileirão.
Despite continuing conservative treatment and facing the likelihood of arthroscopic surgery at the end of the season, Neymar delivered his first hat-trick since April 2022 with then-club Paris Saint-Germain.
He broke the deadlock in the 56th minute on a swift counter-attack, before doubling the lead with a composed finish from an Igor Vinícius cross.
The former Barcelona and PSG star completed his treble from the penalty spot and was substituted in the 83rd minute.
The win lifts Santos two points clear of Vitória, who occupy the final relegation spot, with one match remaining.
A victory in their season finale against Cruzeiro at Vila Belmiro on Sunday will guarantee Santos’ top-flight status.
Juventude, already relegated before kick-off, fell to their fourth straight defeat.
Neymar, who has struggled with recurring injuries in recent seasons, remains hopeful of returning to the Brazil squad ahead of next year’s World Cup.
Squad manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has previously said the forward will be considered if fully fit.
