Neymar returns to play, Santos improves and secures draw with Fortaleza

Santos played poorly and only drew 1-1 with Fortaleza today at Vila Belmiro in the 31st round of the Brazilian Championship. The Peixe improved with the entries of Robinho Jr. and, mainly, Neymar, in the second half, but only managed to draw. Fortaleza played better in the initial stage, scoring 1-0 with Bareiro and even had a second goal disallowed for offside. In the second half, Adonis Frías equalized and the final result was 1-1. Neymar played more than 30 minutes, while the forecast was only 15 or 20. The need of the match led the number 10 to play longer after recovering from a right thigh injury. With the draw, Santos remains in 16th place, now with 33 points, two behind Vitória, who lost to Cruzeiro and is the first in the relegation zone. Fortaleza is 18th with 28 points. This was another stumble by Santos at Vila Belmiro against teams also fighting against relegation. Vojvoda’s Peixe had already lost to Vitória. In the next round, Santos will face Palmeiras at Allianz Parque. Fortaleza will have the derby against Ceará away from home.