In a goalless clash between Santos and Botafogo, Neymar — starting for the first time since injury — attempted a controversial hand goal, echoing Maradona’s infamous move. The act earned him a second yellow card and an early exit. Botafogo went on to win 1-0 with a late goal in the 86th minute.
Neymar later apologized on social media, saying, “My mistake, forgive me! Had I stayed, those 3 points were ours!”
Back at Santos since January on a contract ending June 30, the 33-year-old’s red card means he’ll miss the next match against Fortaleza. With no contract renewal in sight, this could be his last game for the struggling club, currently 18th in the league with seven losses from 11 games.