Flamengo and Santos Clash with VAR and Neymar in Mental Battle

The clash at Vila Belmiro, which ended in a 2-2 draw, was marked by controversial VAR decisions and Neymar's decisive performance, as he scored two penalty goals and changed the game's atmosphere. The match, played in the 29th round of the Brasileirão, left Flamengo without emotional control after opening a 2-0 lead.

VAR Reveals Audio of Red Card and Penalty

The CBF released the VAR audio regarding Jorginho's penalty and red card in the draw between Santos and Flamengo. Referee Anderson Daronco and the VAR booth debated whether the handball constituted "Dogso," an acronym for denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity. The VAR assistant argued that the player used his hand on the ground without a challenge, leading the video referee to suggest a review for expulsion. After analyzing the monitor, Daronco confirmed the penalty and the red card for "Dogso." He also maintained the decision not to call a foul by Rony.

Neymar Returns with Goals and Changes the Mood

Forward Neymar returned to play for Santos last Thursday, scoring both goals in the 2-2 draw against Flamengo. He came off the bench and converted two penalties, extending his season with more direct goal contributions. Neymar's performance kept the Alvinegro alive in the fight for a Libertadores spot, occupying eighth place with 42 points. He remains the second most decisive athlete in the Santos squad this year.

Flamengo Loses Mental Battle

Commentator Rômulo Mendonça analyzed that Flamengo "succumbed" to Neymar's game of provocation and intimidation, letting emotional control slip after opening a 2-0 lead. The rubro-negro club lost the mental battle with the forward, who came in to provoke and change the game's atmosphere. The second-half defeat reinforced Flamengo's need to improve their mental and technical approach, especially in goal, where goalkeeper Rossi shows recurring flaws.

Table Impact and Upcoming Fixtures

The result kept Santos in eighth position, with 42 points, six less than Cruzeiro, who are in fifth place and the first team in the pre-Libertadores qualification zone. The club returns to the field this Sunday, at 4 PM, to face Atlético-MG at Arena MRV. The match kicks off a sequence of two consecutive away commitments for the Alvinegro, before traveling to Rio de Janeiro to face Fluminense at the Maracanã.

With information from ge, UOL, Lance!.