Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Web Desk: Brazilian football star Neymar will miss Brazil’s opening FIFA World Cup match due to injury, raising concerns over his availability for the team’s early tournament fixtures.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that the experienced forward will not be available for Saturday’s opening match against Morocco as he continues to recover from a calf injury.
The 34-year-old has been sidelined in recent weeks and has yet to resume full training with the squad. Ancelotti said Neymar’s rehabilitation is progressing and there is hope he will rejoin regular team training next week.
However, his participation in Brazil’s second group-stage match against Haiti on June 20 also remains uncertain.
“Neymar is working hard to regain full fitness as quickly as possible,” Ancelotti said, emphasizing that the forward’s value to the squad extends beyond his technical abilities. He added that Neymar’s experience and leadership play a crucial role in guiding Brazil’s younger players.
Neymar has not featured for Brazil since 2023 but was included in the World Cup squad due to his experience and importance to the national team.
Brazil’s all-time leading scorer has netted 79 goals in 128 international appearances and is aiming to participate in what could be his fourth FIFA World Cup.
