CricBengal.com | Football Desk
Santos captain Neymar has been handed a two-match suspension for covering his mouth while arguing with an opponent during a Brazilian Serie A match against Bahia. Brazil’s Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) announced the disciplinary decision on Wednesday, October 28, following the incident in a 1–1 draw.
The 34-year-old forward was sent off after an altercation with Bahia midfielder Rodrigo Nestor. The tribunal subsequently ruled that Neymar had violated the protocol commonly referred to as the “Vinicius Junior rule,” which prohibits players from covering their mouths during on-field confrontations. Neymar and Santos have the right to appeal the decision.
What Happened Against Bahia?
Tensions between Neymar and Nestor had already surfaced during the first half of the match. Their disagreement continued after the break, when Neymar covered his mouth while speaking to the Bahia midfielder.
The referee reviewed the incident and showed Neymar a straight red card. According to the referee’s report, the Santos captain then moved towards Bahia’s bench after his dismissal and had to be restrained by teammates.
The incident prompted further disciplinary scrutiny and resulted in the additional two-match suspension.
What Is the Vinicius Junior Rule?
The protocol is intended to discourage players from concealing potentially abusive or discriminatory remarks during confrontations. It takes its name from Real Madrid and Brazil forward Vinicius Junior, who has been involved in high-profile incidents involving allegations of racist abuse in football.
Covering the mouth can make it more difficult for officials to determine what has been said during an argument. The rule aims to improve accountability and help authorities address potentially discriminatory behaviour on the pitch.
Neymar’s case has brought renewed attention to how the protocol is applied and the disciplinary consequences players may face for breaching it.
Neymar Could Miss Three Santos Matches
The two-match suspension comes on top of a separate one-match ban resulting from the accumulation of yellow cards. As a result, Neymar is expected to miss three Santos fixtures in total unless the disciplinary situation changes.
Santos and the player can appeal the ruling related to the protocol violation. If the suspension stands, reports indicate that Neymar may not return to action until late November.
His absence could be a significant setback for Santos as the club approaches a crucial stage of the Brazilian league season. The team will need to find ways to collect points without its captain and one of its most recognisable attacking players.
Another Disciplinary Setback for the Santos Captain
Neymar’s season has been affected by fitness concerns as well as disciplinary issues. The latest ruling adds another challenge for the Brazilian forward, who is attempting to maintain his influence at Santos.
The possibility of an appeal means the final outcome could still change. Until then, Santos must prepare for upcoming matches without Neymar and monitor developments in the disciplinary case.
CricBengal Analysis
The suspension highlights football’s growing focus on accountability during on-field confrontations. While the context and intent behind Neymar’s gesture may remain disputed, the tribunal has based its decision on the relevant protocol. The appeal process and Santos’ performance without their captain will be important developments to follow.
Sources: Reuters, Al Jazeera, The Daily Star.
Reuters-এর প্রতিবেদন এবং Al Jazeera-এর প্রতিবেদন।
Published by: CricBengal.com
