The Santos vs São Paulo classic, part of the 2025 Brasileirão round, is set to heat up Vila Belmiro with a clash between two teams enjoying strong moments this season. Santos, even without Neymar on the pitch, comes into the game with good results and a well-connected squad under the command of Fábio Carille. On the other side, São Paulo, led by Luis Zubeldía and with goalkeeper Rafael in spectacular form, aims to maintain consistency in the G6.
Neymar Visits Santos, But All Focus Is on the Santos vs São Paulo Classic
The week kicked off with Neymar visiting the CT Rei Pelé training center, raising anticipation for the match. Despite the superstar’s presence—only as a visitor—he won’t be playing in the Santos vs São Paulo game. The coaching staff remained focused on tactical training and finishing drills, prioritizing the team’s collective performance for this crucial match.
Probable Santos Lineup to Face São Paulo
Coach Fábio Carille is expected to stick with his usual setup, focusing on defensive solidity and speed on the wings. The likely lineup for the Santos vs São Paulo clash is:
João Paulo; Auro, Joaquim, Gil, and Felipe Jonatan; João Schmidt, Rincón, and Giuliano; Soteldo, Guilherme, and Julio Furch.
Options like Lucas Braga, Morelos, and Weslley Patati could feature in the second half, depending on the flow of the game.
Full Santos Squad for the Classic
Goalkeepers:
- João Paulo (starter)
- Vladimir
Defenders:
- Auro, Joaquim, Gil, Alex, Felipe Jonatan, Kevyson
Midfielders:
- João Schmidt, Tomás Rincón, Rodrigo Fernández, Giuliano, Cazares, Nonato
Forwards:
- Soteldo, Guilherme, Julio Furch, Morelos, Lucas Braga, Patati
With solid options on the bench, Carille may adapt his strategy depending on São Paulo’s style, which has emphasized ball possession and organized attacking play.
Tactical Analysis: How Santos Is Expected to Approach the Match
The Santos vs São Paulo classic will likely see an intense midfield battle. Santos is expected to play with compact lines, relying on quick transitions using Soteldo and Furch. Set-piece plays involving Gil and Giuliano could also be key. São Paulo, on the other hand, arrives in great form, especially thanks to Rafael, the current leader in difficult saves this season.
📌 More on São Paulo’s standout performer: 🧤 Rafael leads São Paulo in difficult saves in 2025
Recent Head-to-Head Record: Santos vs São Paulo
In the last five matches between the two sides, it’s been an even contest:
- 2 wins for Santos
- 2 wins for São Paulo
- 1 draw
The average goal count per match is 1.8, highlighting the tactical and tight nature of recent classics. At Vila Belmiro, Santos has a stronger record.
Importance of the Santos vs São Paulo Match in the 2025 Brasileirão Standings
Both teams are currently near the top of the table, fighting for direct spots in the 2026 Libertadores. A win in this classic means more than just three points—it’s a huge morale booster for the rest of the season. Santos is looking to solidify their rise, while São Paulo aims to maintain their solid run.
Conclusion: A Decisive Classic in 2025
With ingredients like fierce rivalry, balance, in-form players, and a decisive atmosphere, the Santos vs São Paulo showdown in the 2025 Brasileirão promises drama from start to finish. Even without Neymar, Santos trusts in the power of Vila Belmiro and their cohesive squad to overcome their rivals.
👉 Follow full coverage of the classic and the Brasileirão at Futiboll.com – Futebol Nacional. Share, comment, and tag that rival friend who’s watching the match with you!
🎥 Recommended Video:
Santos vs São Paulo – Training, Behind the Scenes, and Expectations for the Classic
📌 Also check out:
🧤 Rafael shines for São Paulo and leads key statistics
🔥 Flamengo vs Vasco: Updated History and Stats in the Brasileirão