Neymar handed two-game Santos suspension for covering mouth in argument

Rio de Janeiro: Santos captain Neymar has received a two-game ban for covering his mouth during an argument with an opponent during Saturday's 1-1 draw between Brazilian Serie A teams Santos and Bahia, according to the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). The 34-year-old was dismissed after a clash with Bahia midfielder Rodrigo Nestor, and the tribunal ruled that he violated the Vinicius Jr. rule, which prohibits players from covering their faces during on-field disputes.

The STJD's report stated that Neymar, following his ejection, approached the opponent's bench and had to be restrained by his teammates. Consequently, Neymar will miss Santos' following three matches. He is already suspended for Wednesday's league game against Palmeiras due to accumulating three yellow cards, and will serve two extra matches for the protocol violation.

Neymar and Santos have the option to appeal the ruling. This is Neymar's second suspension this year; three months ago, he became the first player in Brazil's top flight to be temporarily pulled from the game under a new rule designed to prevent time-wasting by goalkeepers. The former Brazil captain is not expected to return to action until late November, as reported by Reuters.