Santos head coach Cuca has named star forward Neymar to the substitutes' bench for the Copa Sudamericana playoff second-leg clash against Universidad Central at Vila Belmiro Stadium on July 28, 2026.
The decision to rest the number 10 comes as the Brazilian club prioritizes its upcoming Copa do Brasil match against Remo on Saturday.
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Santos holds a comfortable advantage heading into the home fixture after securing a 4-1 victory in the first leg, allowing them to advance even with a two-goal defeat.
Neymar enters the fixture following a contentious week at the club.
Tensions flared after he harshly criticized teammates during a 2-2 draw against Chapecoense, followed by an unauthorized early departure from training at the CT Rei Pelé complex on Sunday.
Santos faces additional squad adjustments due to injuries, with Vinícius Lira, Gustavo Henrique, and Pepê Fermino all ruled out of the contest.
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Cuca's starting lineup features Gabriel Brazão in goal, supported by a defensive line of Gabriel Menino, Adonis Frías, João Ananias, and Escobar.
The midfield consists of Willian Arão, Christian Oliva, and Rollheiser, while Barreal, Miguelito, and Gabigol lead the attack.
Universidad Central enters the match well-rested after having no weekend domestic fixture.
Head coach Daniel Sasso selected a starting eleven featuring goalkeeper Schiavone alongside Maicol Ruiz, Kendrys Silva, Mottes, Cumana, Solé, Vicente Rodríguez, Lugo, Mosquera, Samuel Sosa, and Zapata.
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Paraguayan referee Carlos Benitez will officiate the match, supported by assistant referees Roberto Cañete and Jose Villagra, with Ulises Mereles serving as the Video Assistant Referee.
