Santos host San Lorenzo on Wednesday in matchday five of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana. Santos know that only a win will keep their hopes of topping Group D alive.
Neymar’s Injury a Concern for Santos
Santos face San Lorenzo at Vila Belmiro. The situation is similar to the first meeting, with Santos likely to be without key players. Most notably, Neymar, who suffered a right calf injury against Coritiba, is unlikely to be fit.
Neymar recently received some welcome news, however. Carlo Ancelotti called him up for the 2026 World Cup, ending one of the biggest debates surrounding Brazil’s squad. The announcement was made at the Museu do Amanha in Rio de Janeiro, at a CBF-organised ceremony attended by around 1,200 guests — including former players, executives, artists, influencers and politicians — an unprecedented format for a national team call-up.
Previous Encounter and Group D Standings
The sides previously met, playing out a 1-1 draw. Cuello opened the scoring in the 27th minute before Gabriel Barbosa — Gabigol — made it 1-1 five minutes later.
Rooted to the bottom of Group D, Santos have just three points from four games. Those points came from three draws and one defeat. A win could lift them into a more favourable position, potentially as high as second or first depending on goal difference and other results. The pressure is therefore immense; only a victory keeps their qualification hopes alive going into the final round.
San Lorenzo’s Position and Recent Form
San Lorenzo arrive at Vila Belmiro as Group D leaders on six points. They are enjoying a far more comfortable position than their opponents. With only the top team advancing directly to the last 16, a draw keeps the Argentines well placed heading into the final round. The pressure is firmly on Santos: while San Lorenzo can afford to be cautious, Santos must take risks.
San Lorenzo’s recent domestic form adds another layer to this match. They were knocked out of the 2026 Torneo Apertura by River Plate on penalties after a 2-2 draw in the round of 16. That setback could either dent their confidence or motivate them to secure top spot in the group.
Santos’s Domestic Struggles
The domestic picture is equally troubling for Santos. Santos suffered a 3-0 defeat to Coritiba last time out, a match marked by controversy involving Neymar. The No. 10 was mistakenly substituted after the fourth official confused the number displayed by the coaching staff—it should have been Gonzalo Escobar who came off, but Neymar’s number was shown instead. The result left Santos 16th in the Brasileiro on 18 points, level with Corinthians, who occupy the relegation zone.
Another close contest is expected between Santos and San Lorenzo, especially with Santos facing significant injury concerns.
Both Santos and San Lorenzo have struggled in attack at times this season, leading to tight, low-scoring games.