Neymar unable to make the difference. Santos crash out in Paulista quarterfinal

In the quarterfinal clash of Brazil’s Paulista championship, Santos faced Novorizontino but were unable to deliver the result they needed.

Details: The opening goal arrived in first-half stoppage time, 45+1, when Romulo’s effort put the hosts in front. However, Santos restored parity in the second half. Gabriel Bontempo brought the visitors level, making it 1–1 on the scoreboard.

It seemed the match was destined to finish 1–1 in regulation, but in the sixth minute of added time Novorizontino snatched victory through a dramatic strike from Leo Naldi — 2–1.

Neymar played the full 90 minutes but could not inspire Santos to a place in the Paulista semifinals. Next up, his side will face Vasco on February 27 in Brazil’s Serie A.