Thiago Mendes and Neymar’s long-running feud produced another awkward chapter before Santos’ Brazilian Serie A clash against Vasco da Gama on Sunday. The Vasco midfielder appeared to deliberately avoid Neymar during the customary pre-match handshake, immediately drawing attention at Sao Januario. The controversial incident added another layer to an already heated rivalry between the two Brazilians, who have crossed paths several times since their days in Ligue 1. Neymar Jr ultimately had the last word on the pitch, as Santos secured a convincing 3-0 victory.
Thiago Mendes Ignores Neymar Before Vasco vs Santos
The tension was visible even before kick-off when Thiago Mendes seemingly left Neymar Jr without a handshake during the players’ pre-match greetings. Footage of the moment quickly circulated online, with Neymar’s social media account reacting to the incident.
The latest episode follows a history of confrontations between the pair. Their rivalry dates back to 2020, when Mendes was playing for Lyon and was sent off after a challenge on Neymar during a Ligue 1 meeting with Paris Saint-Germain. The tackle resulted in an ankle injury for Neymar and became a major talking point in France.
Their relationship remained hostile after both players returned to Brazilian football. Earlier this year, they were involved in another confrontation during Santos’ meeting with Vasco. Neymar later criticised Mendes publicly, while the Vasco midfielder said he had simply demanded respect after taking issue with Neymar’s goal celebration.
Watch the viral video here:
Thiago Mendes ignorou Neymar na hora do cumprimento das equipes. pic.twitter.com/VievPWriQl
— njdeprê – marlon (@njdmarlon) August 16, 2026
Neymar Shines As Santos Beat Vasco 3-0
Despite the pre-match drama, Neymar’s response came through his performance. Santos FC produced an emphatic second-half display to defeat Vasco 3-0 at Sao Januario and move out of the relegation zone.
Gabriel Barbosa opened the scoring after the break before Willian Arao doubled Santos’ advantage. Luan Peres completed the victory, with both of the latter goals stemming from Neymar free-kicks. The result lifted Santos to 25 points and 14th place provisionally, while Vasco remained 19th with 22 points and extended their winless run to seven matches.
The victory therefore gave Neymar plenty to celebrate, while Mendes and Vasco were left facing another difficult night. What began with an icy greeting ended with Santos comfortably taking all three points.
