Neymar employs a technique strictly prohibited by FIFA

Neymar replicated a remarkable technical move that forced FIFA to amend its regulations.

Neymar made a highly anticipated comeback in the match between Santos and Fortaleza after a long injury break.

The Brazilian superstar came off the bench in the 67th minute, replacing Victor Hugo, and was warmly welcomed by fans at Estadio Urbano Caldeira. Shortly after, a Fortaleza own goal by Bruno Pacheco leveled the score. With about 15 minutes left, Neymar’s team pushed hard to secure a crucial victory to end their recent slump.

In stoppage time, Neymar nearly became the hero with a daring Paradinha free kick. Paradinha, meaning “little stop” in Portuguese, is a technique invented by legend Pele in the 1970s to deceive goalkeepers’ reflexes.

In the shared video, Neymar runs up as usual but halts just before the ball, faking a shot that makes the Fortaleza wall jump, then strikes the ball immediately after. However, this shot was unable to beat the Fortaleza goalkeeper.

Witnessing Neymar’s near goal, fans were thrilled and praised the cleverness of the 1992-born superstar.

One fan commented: “Neymar Jr. at his most creative form.”

Another wrote: “He’s always inventing new techniques.”

A different comment expressed amazement: “Unbelievable, he fooled the entire wall?”

Previously, Neymar frequently used the Paradinha during penalties early in his Santos career. However, FIFA later banned this run-up style, deeming it unsportsmanlike. According to the new rule, players are not allowed to stop mid-run before kicking the ball.

In the document issued at that time, FIFA stated: “Feigning a shot after completing the run-up is considered a violation of Law 14 and is unsportsmanlike conduct. The player will be cautioned.”

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