Benjamín Rollheiser has returned after a muscle issue and is available to start for Santos in a decisive Copa Sudamericana match against Deportivo Cuenca on Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. Brasília time at Vila Belmiro. The Argentine midfielder is once again an option for coach Cuca as Santos looks to close its group-stage campaign with a much-needed win.
According to Globo.com, Christian Oliva trained without restrictions on Monday and will be included in the squad. His availability gives Santos another midfield alternative as the team prepares for one of its most important matches in the tournament. Although Santos can no longer finish first in the group, a victory would significantly improve its chances of advancing to the Sudamericana playoffs.
Cuca will have to make at least one defensive adjustment, with center back Lucas Veríssimo suspended after receiving his third yellow card. His absence creates a setback for Santos in a match where defensive stability could be decisive. At the same time, forward Álvaro Barreal is set to return to the starting lineup after missing the defeat to Grêmio, giving the attack a welcome boost.
Neymar remains unavailable for Santos because of swelling in his right calf. The star forward has been training only indoors with physiotherapists and in the gym while recovering from the issue. His absence is a major blow for Santos, especially in a match with strong implications for the club’s continental future. Neymar, who was called up by Brazil for the World Cup and was expected to report on May 27, will not play for Santos again this semester. The club expects him to return after the tournament in the United States.
The match against Deportivo Cuenca carries added weight for Santos as the team tries to recover momentum in the Copa Sudamericana. With Rollheiser back, Oliva fit to be called up, and Barreal returning to the lineup, Cuca has more options available than in recent weeks. However, the suspension of Veríssimo and Neymar’s injury leave Santos with significant personnel challenges.
Santos enters the game knowing that only a win will keep its hopes alive for a stronger finish in the competition. The result will help determine whether the Brazilian side can move forward in the Sudamericana and continue its international campaign beyond the group stage.
