Santos fans hoping to see their star forward Neymar Jr in action against fierce rivals Palmeiras tonight will be disappointed, as the 34-year-old Brazilian will miss the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A fixture. Neymar Jr is unavailable due to a suspension. The clash, part of Brazilian Serie A's 33rd round, is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Santos' home ground, the Estadio Urbano Caldeira, famously known as Vila Belmiro. Kick-off is set for 04:00 AM Indian Standard Time (IST) on October 28. Neymar Sent Off After Covering Mouth in Heated Exchange with Rodrigo Nestor During During Santos vs Bahia Brazilian Serie A Match.

Neymar Jr's Absence Confirmed

Neymar Jr's absence stems from a suspension incurred after being sent off in Santos' previous match, a 1-1 draw against Bahia on Saturday, October 24. He accumulated his third yellow card in that same game, which would have ruled him out regardless of the red card.

Adding to the setback, the forward is also on the mend from a Type 2B muscle injury to the rectus femoris in his right thigh. This injury was sustained in a Copa do Brasil match against Palmeiras earlier in September. While initial prognoses suggested a potential return between late October and early November, the suspension definitively keeps him off the pitch tonight.

Neymar Jr, who rejoined his boyhood club Santos in January 2025 and extended his contract until December 2026, has been a central figure for the team. His focus, as he reportedly stated earlier this year, has been on regaining full fitness and honoring his contract with Santos.

Team Form and League Standings

Palmeiras enter this crucial fixture sitting second in the Brasileirão table with 69 points, just one point adrift of league leaders Flamengo. Their strong form was highlighted by a recent 2-0 victory over Red Bull Bragantino. Known for their robust defense, Palmeiras boast a formidable goal difference of +34 and have conceded a league-best 22 goals (0.69 per match). Will Lionel Messi Play in Inter Miami vs FC Cincinnati MLS 2026 Match?.

Santos, currently eighth in the league with 46 points, will be looking to improve their standing. Their last league outing resulted in a draw against Bahia. In their last six league matches, Santos have recorded three wins, two draws, and one loss, averaging 1.67 goals scored and 1.33 conceded per game.

Their last encounter on September 3, 2026, ended in a goalless draw, despite Santos dominating possession (64%) and outshooting Palmeiras 19 to 9. Tonight's fixture remains a significant one for both clubs, with Palmeiras pushing for the title and Santos aiming to climb higher in the standings, making for a compelling watch even without the presence of Neymar Jr on the field.