Ancelotti confirms Neymar sidelined for Brazil’s World Cup opener against Morocco

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar will miss the national team’s 2026 World Cup opening match against Morocco on Saturday due to a calf injury. The 34-year-old forward has not played for the Selecao since 2023 and is expected to resume training with the squad next week, leaving his availability for the subsequent match against Haiti doubtful.

Ancelotti stated that Neymar is working very hard to recover as quickly as possible and expects him to rejoin the group next week. The uncertainty surrounding the forward’s fitness adds a layer of complexity to the coach’s tactical preparations as he seeks to lead Brazil to their first World Cup title since 2002.

Neymar is Brazil’s all-time top goalscorer with 79 goals in 128 caps, surpassing Pelé’s previous record of 77. This will be his fourth World Cup appearance, having previously represented Brazil in 2014, 2018, and 2022. However, at 34, the forward is no longer considered the dominant force he once was, and his selection by Ancelotti has raised questions within the football community.

The squad selection has also drawn scrutiny regarding the omission of Chelsea striker Joao Pedro, who scored 20 goals across all competitions last season. The contrast between Neymar’s inclusion despite his injury history and Pedro’s omission has been noted, highlighting the difficult decisions facing the coaching staff.

Brazil face a stern test in their opening game against Morocco, who are aiming to replicate their historic semi-final run from the previous tournament in Qatar. Brazil has not been at its free-flowing best in recent months but retains significant experience and talent. The group campaign concludes against Scotland on 24 June.