Santos FC's Tactical Resilience: Navigating Success Without Neymar

In the absence of their talismanic forward Neymar, Santos FC has demonstrated a commendable tactical adaptability, extending their unbeaten streak to four matches as of September 29, 2025. This period of resilience is underlined by their recent 2-0 victory against Atlético Mineiro at Vila Belmiro and maintaining positive results against formidable opponents like São Paulo and Bragantino. The tactical ingenuity displayed by Santos FC's coaching staff has been pivotal in this transformation, a stark contrast to their prior four-match losing streak.

The injury to Neymar, a grade 2 rectus femoris muscle tear, sidelined him on September 18, forcing the team to recalibrate their on-field strategies. Without Neymar's dynamic presence, Santos FC has adopted a more collective approach, emphasizing a cohesive team effort over individual brilliance. This shift is evident in their deployment of a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on structured build-up play and exploitation of width through their full-backs. The midfield double pivot has been crucial, providing a defensive shield and facilitating quick transitions.

Key to Santos' success has been the performances of their wingers and the lone striker, who have assumed greater responsibility in Neymar's absence. The front quartet has been tasked with interchanging positions, creating fluid attacking movements that stretch opposition defenses. The wide players have been instrumental in providing service into the box, often cutting inside to create shooting opportunities or deliver incisive through balls.

Defensively, Santos has shown remarkable resilience, maintaining compactness and discipline to thwart attacking threats. The backline, coordinated by the experienced center-backs, has been adept at maintaining a high line, catching opponents offside, and initiating counter-attacks. This strategic balance between attack and defense has been crucial in preserving their unbeaten run.

Santos FC President Marcelo Teixeira remains optimistic about Neymar's return before the end of the Brazilian league season, anticipated in November, which would add an additional dimension to their attacking prowess. Until then, the club's ability to maintain competitiveness in the league, despite Neymar's absence, reflects not only tactical acumen but also the squad's depth and determination.