Neymar returns to the field
Brazilian striker Neymar made his long-awaited return to his boyhood club Santos in a 1-1 draw with Botafogo in the Brazilian Paulista championship on Wednesday.
The Urbano Caldeira stadium erupted in celebration as jubilant and tearful fans lit up their mobile phones to give the striker, who left the club 12 years ago, a hero's welcome before kick-off.
Neymar, who was celebrating his 33rd birthday, was on the bench and entered the field after the break after Santos had taken the lead through Tiquinho Soares' penalty in the first half.
However, the striker struggled under the pressure of his first game in 16 months. He tried to create some of the magic that put him among the best in the world during his five years at Barcelona, but it wasn't enough.
Botafogo equalized through Alexandre de Jesus in the 67th minute. Wallison was sent off four minutes later for a foul on Neymar, but Santos were unable to capitalize on their superior numbers.
"I can't find words to express the feeling when you like something. I love Santos so much and I can't find words to describe the feeling I felt when I went out on the pitch today," Neymar said after the match.
