Neymar in Tears as Santos Crushed by Vasco da Gama

Brazilian forward Neymar scored three goals in 11 Serie A matches since rejoining Santos.

Neymar was visibly upset as Santos suffered a 6-0 defeat by Vasco da Gama at home, marking the largest loss in his career. This was also the first time Santos conceded six goals at home in a Brazilian Serie A game.

Following the defeat, Santos, an eight-time champion, is just two points above the relegation zone. Coach Cleber Xavier was dismissed hours after the game.

Former Liverpool and Aston Villa forward Philippe Coutinho scored twice for Vasco, securing their first victory in six league games and their biggest league win in 17 years.

Expressing disappointment, Neymar stated, "I'm ashamed of our performance. The fans have the right to protest, but not with violence. If they want to criticize, they have that right. Our on-field attitude was terrible."

Neymar, the world's most expensive footballer, rejoined Santos in January after leaving Paris St-Germain and terminating his contract with Al-Hilal. Since his return, he has scored six goals and provided three assists in 21 games across all competitions.

In his first Serie A start of the season, Neymar left the field injured after 34 minutes and missed the following five league games due to a hamstring issue.

Xavier, who took over in April, was relieved of his duties after leading Santos to five wins in 15 matches. Santos is now just above the relegation zone, one place ahead of Vasco, who climbed out of the bottom four after their recent victory.

Santos, who earned promotion back to the Brazilian top flight last year, will face fourth-placed Bahia in their next game on Sunday, August 24.