Brazilian icon Neymar was left in tears after suffering the heaviest defeat of his career on Sunday night
The forward, 33, rejoined boyhood club Santos earlier this year after a nightmare 18-month spell at Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal where he was riddled by injuries.
Neymar has had a mixed impact back in his homeland, scoring six goals and adding three assists in 19 games, but Santos are 15th in the Brazilian top flight and just two points clear of the relegation zone.
And on Sunday, things reached a nadir for Neymar as Santos were beaten 6-0 by Vasco da Gama.
The defeat was the biggest of the Brazilian’s career and came after former Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho scored twice for Vasco.
Neymar was subsequently overcome with emotion at full-time and was consoled on the pitch by a member of the club’s coaching staff.
As he then headed towards the tunnel, the 33-year-old could be seen in tears which he was forced to wipe away with his shirt.
The previous heaviest loss of his career came back in September 2015 when Barcelona were beaten 4-1 by Celta Vigo in LaLiga.
Following his emotional outburst, Neymar was extremely strong in his assessment of Santos’ performance while he explained why he was crying.
‘I’m ashamed,’ Neymar said. ‘I’m totally disappointed with our performance.
‘The fans have every right to protest, obviously without using violence… but if they want to curse and insult, they’re in their right.’
‘It’s a feeling of extreme shame. I’ve never experienced this in my life. Unfortunately, it happened.
‘The tears were from anger, from everything. Unfortunately, I can’t help in every way. Anyway, it was total s***, that’s the reality.’
In the immediate aftermath of the dire defeat, Santos then sacked their head coach Cleber Xavier as they attempt to rescue their season.
Neymar left the pitch in tears after 6-0 defeat against Vasco de Gama.
Neymar’s biggest loss in his football career.
— Ney (@Neycromancer) August 17, 2025
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