Brazil will look to get their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign back on track when they face Haiti in their second Group C match on Friday (local time), with head coach Carlo Ancelotti confident his side can overcome the shortcomings revealed in the tournament opener. The question is still whether their star Neymar Jr. available for night or not?The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed the 34-year-old will miss the game with a long-term grade two strain in his right calf, dealing a blow to Brazil as they look for their first win of the tournament.
Why is Neymar missing?
Neymar did not travel with the team to Philadelphia for the game. Instead, he remained at Brazil’s training base in New Jersey, where he continues his rehabilitation program under the supervision of the team’s medical staff. Although the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star returned to the training pitch earlier this week and took part in light running exercises, Brazil do not want to rush his recovery.Head coach Carlo Ancelotti and the medical team are said to be taking a cautious approach, prioritizing Neymar’s long-term fitness over a quick return during the group stage.
When could Neymar return?
The current plan is for Neymar to miss Brazil’s remaining Group C matches, including the upcoming match against Scotland, with the aim of being fully fit for the knockout rounds which begin on June 29. His progress has been encouraging but Brazil are determined not to risk aggravating the injury at a crucial stage of the tournament.Brazil under pressureBrazil go into the clash in Haiti under pressure after being held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their first game. The five-time world champions failed to capitalize on several opportunities and now need a positive result to strengthen their hopes of reaching the knockout stages. In Neymar’s absence, much of the creative burden will fall on Real Madrid duo Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, who are expected to spearhead Brazil’s attack.
