Neymar's first game back after 369 days out ends with nine goals, a red card and two hat-tricks

Neymar sustained the injury while on international duty for Brazil against Uruguay little over a year ago.

But the 32-year-old has made his return to competitive football for the first time in 369 days after coming off the bench for Al Hilal against Al-Ain.

Neymar was brought on for Nasser Al Dawsari in the 77th minute and nearly made an instant impact.

After an exchange with former Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, Neymar managed to create an opening before firing just wide.

He was unable to get on the scoresheet in the end on what proved to be a dramatic match.

Renan Lodi gave Al Hilal the lead midway through the first half before Soufiane Rahimi equalised minutes later.

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Salem Al-Dawsari then scored deep into stoppage time for the visitors to give them a 3-1 lead at the break.

There was even more action in the second half as Al-Dawsari completed his hat-trick before Al Hilal were reduced to 10 men when Ali Al Bulayhi was sent off.

That opened the door for a late comeback from Al-Ain with Rahimi finishing off his hat-trick in stoppage time.

But Al Hilal were able to hold on for the win to leave them top of the standings after three games.

Welcome back, Neymar ♥️👏

The 32-year-old Brazilian returns to the pitch 12 months after suffering an ACL tear ⚽ pic.twitter.com/clVdcXNs85

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) October 21, 2024

Neymar was emotional after the game as he expressed his joy at being back on the field.

He said: "I feel good... I always have a good team. I'm so happy. I'm back! I'm back!"

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Neymar's return was also celebrated on social media with his former club Santos paying tribute to the Brazilian.

"It was more than 12 months away from the field, with an immeasurable longing to return to doing what he loves so much," they wrote.

"Neymar is not just a star. It's not just genius. Neymar is synonymous with joy in football. His return is the happiness of millions of fans around the world. And, when it comes to fans, the Santos nation has an incomparable feeling. A more than special bond with the best Brazilian player of recent years."