Big names in world football are closely linked to FC Santos. Brazilian legend Pelé spent most of his career there and superstar Neymar played his way into the international spotlight with the two-time World Cup winners. Now the traditional club has been relegated for the first time in the club’s 111-year history. Relegation was sealed with a 1:2 on the last matchday in front of a home crowd against Fortaleza EC.
After the final whistle, the fans expressed anger and disappointment. They threw objects at the kickers and some supporters even stormed onto the field. The players and the referee team had to flee into the catacombs under police protection. Riots continued in the city, where Santos fans left a path of destruction. They set fire to cars, buses and even buildings. A cloud of black smoke rose above the scene.
Alexandre Gallo, Santos’ technical director, commented after the relegation. “That was a historically bad night. The first thing we have to do is apologize with great humility.” Club legend Neymar was combative after the disappointment. “We will return to laughter,” wrote the 31-year-old on social networks. The Brazilian international, who moved to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia in the summer, watched the game on television as he is currently out due to a torn cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee.
2023-12-08 16:10:59
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