Neymar Given Two-Game Santos Suspension For Covering Mouth During Argument

Santos captain Neymar has received a two-match suspension from Brazil’s Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) for covering his mouth during an argument with an opponent in a 1-1 Brazilian Serie A draw against Bahia on Saturday.

According to the STJD, the 34-year-old was sent off following an altercation with Bahia midfielder Rodrigo Nestor. The tribunal found Neymar guilty of violating the Vinicius Junior rule, which prohibits players from covering their mouths during on-field confrontations. The referee's report also stated that after receiving a red card, Neymar ran toward the visitors' bench to confront his opponent and required restraint from teammates.

Suspension Details and Practical Implications

• Match Impact: Neymar will miss Santos' upcoming fixtures, sitting out a total of three matches including an automatic suspension for accumulating three yellow cards ahead of Wednesday's game against Palmeiras.
• Return Timeline: The former Brazil captain is not expected to return to action until late November.
• Rule Background: The IFAB-approved rule mandates a red card for players covering their mouths during on-field confrontations, an amendment passed ahead of the World Cup following an incident involving alleged racial abuse in the UEFA Champions League.

How to Verify

Readers can verify official sporting disciplinary decisions by consulting statements released directly by Brazil’s Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) or official Brazilian Serie A match reports.