Neymar injured again during Santos’ Copa do Brasil quarterfinal against Palmeiras

Brazilian forward Neymar da Silva was forced off with an injury during Santos’ home Copa do Brasil quarterfinal second leg against Palmeiras on Wednesday. The 34-year-old, who was attempting a left-footed shot from outside the penalty area in the 43rd minute, felt a sharp pain in his right upper thigh and was substituted before halftime, with Roni coming on in his place. Brazilian media reported that the injury appeared serious and that it remained unclear how long Neymar would be sidelined pending detailed medical examinations. The development was described as a major setback for Santos, who are battling relegation in the Brazilian top flight. It was uncertain whether Neymar would be available for Santos’ league match away to Internacional on Monday in the 26th round. The forward has made 25 appearances for the club this season, scoring 8 goals and providing 8 assists. The injury comes as the latest in a series of physical setbacks for Neymar, whose previous major layoff came after rupturing his cruciate ligament while playing for Brazil against Uruguay in October 2023.