Neymar’s “Hand of God” Moment Ends in Red Card Drama

RIO DE JANEIRO  — In a cruel twist of fate, Neymar’s attempt to emulate his childhood idol Diego Maradona resulted in a decisive red card Sunday during Santos’ 1-0 loss to Botafogo – potentially marking his final appearance for the storied Brazilian club.

The 33-year-old forward, making just his second start since returning from injury, saw his desperate handball goal attempt in the 75th minute backfire spectacularly. After punching a rebound into the net, Neymar received his second yellow card, leaving Santos to play the remainder shorthanded before conceding an 86th-minute winner.

Career Crossroads

The dismissal carries significant consequences:

• Rules Neymar out of Thursday’s crucial match against Fortaleza

• With his contract expiring June 30, this could be his Santos farewell

• Leaves relegation-threatened Santos (18th place) without their star

“I made a mistake, forgive me!” Neymar posted post-match. “These lost points are on me.”

Neymar reacts when the red card is shown. Miguel Schincariol/Getty Images

Historical Irony

The incident carries poetic tragedy – Neymar has frequently cited Maradona’s influence since meeting him as a teenager. While Maradona’s 1986 handball goal propelled Argentina to World Cup glory, Neymar’s imitation only deepened Santos’ crisis.

Club officials remain tight-lipped about contract extension talks with their prodigal son, whose Saudi sojourn at Al-Hilal yielded just five appearances before injury struck.