Neymar criticized the state of the Vila Belmiro pitch after sustaining a right thigh injury during Wednesday's Brazilian Cup game against Palmeiras. The Brazilian forward was replaced at half-time after complaining of pain in his right hamstring. Santos also lost winger Álvaro Barreal and defender Lucas Veríssimo to injuries against Palmeiras.

Neymar said the grounds were in the worst shape ever seen, full of holes because they de compacted the pitch one day before the game, calling it "UNBELIEVABLE" and a "GREAT sh*tty job." Palmeiras, who held Santos to a goalless draw to progress to the Brazil Cup semifinals 3-0 on aggregate, responded on Instagram by praising their pitch at Nubank Parque, stating it is always perfect and free of holes due to daily care, and noted they are the Série A**re the Série A club with the fewest injuries over the last five years. Santos, who are fighting to avoid relegation, also lost Álvaro Barreal and Lucas Veríssimo to injuries. Neymar, who left the pitch in tears, is doubtful for Sunday's league game at Corinthians, saying he felt discomfort in his thigh and will undergo tests.

Santos are 14th in the league standings, four points clear of the relegation zone.