Neymar Revives Paradinha Skill That Once Forced FIFA to Change Rules

Neymar marked his Santos return against Fortaleza by attempting the famous Paradinha free-kick, a feint-style move once banned by FIFA. Substituted on in the 67th minute, the 33-year-old nearly scored in stoppage time. The technique, popularized by Pele and previously used by Neymar, was outlawed after FIFA deemed mid-run feints during penalties unsporting.

In the recent Santos vs Fortaleza clash, Neymar made headlines by attempting the iconic ‘Paradinha’ technique, a move that once led FIFA to change its rules. Making his return for Santos after a long injury break, the 33-year-old came on in the 67th minute to a huge ovation from the home fans at Estadio Urbano Caldeira.

Soon after, an own goal from Fortaleza’s Bruno Pacheco brought Santos level, and in stoppage time, Neymar nearly sealed victory with his creative free-kick. The ‘Paradinha’, meaning “little stop” in Portuguese, was first popularized by Pelé in the 1970s and involves a brief stop before striking the ball to deceive goalkeepers or defenders. Neymar’s version saw him halt mid-run-up, causing the wall to jump early before firing his shot, which was saved, but widely praised by fans for its flair.

FIFA had previously banned the move in penalties, calling it “unsporting behaviour” under Law 14, stating that stopping after the run-up warrants a yellow card. Despite the miss, Neymar’s bold attempt reminded many of his early Santos days and reignited debate among fans about whether the rule change diminished creativity in football.