Neymar clashes with Thiago Mendes at Vila Belmiro and calls him a babaca

In partnership with

OffsAIde

·27 février 2026

Neymar clashes with Thiago Mendes at Vila Belmiro and calls him a babaca

Neymar became embroiled in a confrontation with Thiago Mendes during Santos v Vasco on Thursday at Vila Belmiro, then voiced his anger at half-time. The Santos No 10 criticised the Vasco midfielder’s behaviour and used a slur to describe him.

According to Globo.com, Neymar also recalled a previous flashpoint from his time in France, saying Mendes had injured him at PSG and had told him he would do it again.

Vidéos OneFootball

Following a video review, Thiago Mendes was sent off. He was subsequently suspended for three matches.

After the foul, Mendes posted an apology on social media, expressing admiration for Neymar, hoping nothing serious had occurred and wishing him a swift recovery, while offering sincere apologies.

Neymar suffered a sprain to his left ankle and an injury linked to a bone contusion from the challenge. He returned to action in mid-January 2021.

Source: Globo.com