“Pele’s Former Club Santos Earns Promotion Back to Brazil’s Top League One Year After Relegation”

• Santos returns to Serie A after a 2-0 win over Coritiba, securing promotion a year after being relegated.
• Goals from Wendel and Romulo Otero sealed the victory, and Santos is now on the verge of claiming the Serie B title.
• Club’s rich history: Santos, Pelé’s former club, has been a global football force, producing legends like Neymar, Robinho, and Rodrygo.
• Five-point lead in Serie B with two games to go, as Santos seeks to cap off its successful campaign with the title.

Santos secured its return to Brazil’s Serie A with a 2-0 victory over Coritiba on Monday, marking a triumphant rebound to the top flight just a year after being relegated for the first time in its history. The club, which celebrated its 112th anniversary earlier this year, was relegated in December following a 2-1 loss to Fortaleza in the final round of the 2023 season.

However, Santos quickly regained its top-tier status, with first-half goals from Wendel and Romulo Otero ensuring a decisive win. The victory not only secured promotion but also brought the club within reach of the Serie B title, as they now sit five points clear at the top with just two games remaining.

“The joy of making history. A source of honor and joy,” Brazilian forward Guilherme told ge.globo. “It’s been truly a difficult year, but the fans deserve it so much, as do every staff member and the board of directors. I’m at a loss for words.”

Santos, which has long been associated with the legacy of football icon Pelé, has enjoyed a rich history, particularly during its golden era in the 1950s and 1960s. During this time, the club won 10 state championships and six Brazilian league titles. Pelé’s influence helped make Santos one of the most renowned clubs globally. The club has also produced numerous top talents, including Neymar, Robinho, and Real Madrid star Rodrygo.

“This was the most difficult year in the history of this club,” midfielder João Schmidt said. “It took a lot of courage. Now, we’re almost there – we’re looking for the title.”

With two matches left in the season, Santos is poised to finish the Serie B campaign as champions, marking a strong recovery and ensuring their return to Brazil’s top division.