Neymar was one of Santos’ standout performers against Mirassol, but attention has quickly turned to whether he will play against Palmeiras on an artificial pitch in the Copa do Brasil.

Neymar could be absent after Santos draw with Mirassol

Neymar produced another influential performance for Santos in their 1-1 draw with Mirassol, but the Brazilian star is now facing a major decision ahead of the Copa do Brasil clash with Palmeiras.

The 34-year-old was at the heart of Santos’ attacking play and provided the assist for Álvaro Barreal’s equaliser in the second half.

However, just days before a huge knockout fixture, uncertainty has emerged over whether Neymar will even take the field against Palmeiras.

Neymar shines despite Santos draw

Santos were unable to secure all three points against Mirassol, but Neymar was one of their brightest performers.

The Brazilian created a series of opportunities for his teammates and set up Barreal for the equaliser in the 68th minute.

Neymar was also involved in the incident that saw Mirassol midfielder Wallisson sent off, giving Santos a numerical advantage during the closing stages.

Despite the disappointing result, Neymar once again showed how heavily Santos rely on him to create danger in the final third.

Santos fail to take advantage

With Mirassol reduced to 10 men, Santos pushed aggressively for a winner.

Neymar himself had opportunities to decide the game, but the home side could not find the decisive second goal.

He also received a yellow card late in the match as frustration grew during the closing minutes.

Santos eventually had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

Will Neymar play against Palmeiras?

Attention has now immediately shifted to Santos’ Copa do Brasil quarter-final against Palmeiras.

The first leg is scheduled to be played on an artificial surface, something Neymar has repeatedly expressed concerns about because of the potential physical impact and injury risk.

Santos coach Cuca admitted after the Mirassol match that Neymar’s participation has not yet been decided.

Cuca revealed that he plans to speak directly with Neymar before making the final call.

Artificial pitch creates major dilemma

Neymar has previously been critical of artificial pitches in Brazilian football and has preferred to avoid them when possible.

That leaves Santos with a difficult choice.

The club desperately wants its biggest star available for one of the most important matches of the season, but protecting Neymar’s fitness remains a priority.

There is also another complication.

Neymar is already carrying two yellow cards in the Copa do Brasil, meaning another booking could rule him out of the second leg at Vila Belmiro.

Cuca keeps everyone guessing

Cuca has not ruled out Neymar travelling with the squad and potentially beginning the Palmeiras match on the bench.

For now, however, no final decision has been announced.

That means Neymar’s availability is set to become one of the biggest talking points ahead of the quarter-final.

Huge decision ahead for Santos

Neymar remains the player capable of transforming Santos’ attack in an instant.

His performance against Mirassol again demonstrated his creativity and influence, even when the team failed to win.

But Santos must now balance the importance of the Palmeiras showdown with the need to protect their superstar.

After starring against Mirassol, Neymar could now find himself watching one of Santos’ biggest games of the season from the sidelines.