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Neymar Included in Santos Squad for Copa do Brasil Quarter-Final Against Palmeiras Despite Turf Concerns

Neymar has been confirmed in the Santos squad for their upcoming Copa do Brasil quarter-final first leg against fierce rivals Palmeiras. This comes despite ongoing concerns about the synthetic surface at Nubank Parque, where the match will take place.

Squad Announcement Ends Speculation

Santos officially named Neymar among the players travelling to face Palmeiras on Wednesday evening. The 34-year-old forward had been a major doubt following Santos’ 1-1 draw with Mirassol over the weekend, largely due to his history of ankle injuries aggravated by artificial turf. His inclusion puts an end to the rumors surrounding his availability.

Coach and Player Voices on Synthetic Turf

Head coach Cuca explained that the decision about Neymar's participation involved discussions with the entire technical team and the player himself. He told ESPN Brazil, "I will talk to him and we will make our decisions. With him and the entire squad. We’ll determine what is best to do."

Neymar has openly criticized artificial pitches after worsening an ankle injury in a game against Atletico Mineiro last year. On social media, he expressed his frustration bluntly: "It’s proven, synthetic is absolute s***."

When asked about playing at Palmeiras’ home ground, Neymar replied somewhat evasively: "Man, are you already thinking about that? Calm down, there’s a game on Sunday. I don’t know [if I’ll play on synthetic turf]." He also described the venue as difficult, saying, "Playing at Allianz, for me, is impossible. Playing on a 7-a-side surface is something that bothers any player, regardless of injuries. Morumbi is very good, and I feel better there. I feel good on that pitch."

Growing Opposition to Synthetic Surfaces in Brazil

The resistance to artificial turf is gaining traction within Brazilian football. Prominent players like Lucas Moura, Gabigol, Thiago Silva, and Neymar himself have campaigned against synthetic grass on pitches. Neymar stated plainly, "It is absurd that we have to discuss synthetic grass on our pitches."

Besides Palmeiras’ stadium, other notable Brazilian venues with artificial turf include Ligga Arena, Nilton Santos, Arena MRV, Arena Conda, and Pacaembu in Sao Paulo.

Santos Face a Grueling Schedule Ahead

Santos will tackle a tough week, first traveling to face Corinthians in the Campeonato Brasileiro, then returning home to host Palmeiras for the second leg of the cup tie at Vila Belmiro on September 2. Maintaining Neymar’s fitness throughout these demanding fixtures will be a priority for coach Cuca and his staff, who plan to manage the forward’s workload carefully to keep him at peak performance.

  • Match: Santos vs Palmeiras, Copa do Brasil Quarter-Final First Leg
  • Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2026
  • Venue: Nubank Parque (Artificial Turf)
  • Neymar’s age: 34
  • Recent result: Santos 1-1 Mirassol
  • Next fixtures: Corinthians (Campeonato Brasileiro), Palmeiras (Return leg at Vila Belmiro, Sept 2)
  • Other stadiums with artificial turf in Brazil: Ligga Arena, Nilton Santos, Arena MRV, Arena Conda, Pacaembu

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