Neymar to Miss Brazil’s World Cup Opener Amid Calf Injury Recovery

Brazil’s forward Neymar will be absent from their World Cup opening match against Morocco as he continues to recover from a calf injury, according to Carlo Ancelotti. The team hopes he can resume training next week, but doubts remain about his availability beyond the first game of the tournament.

Neymar has been sidelined since the start of Brazil’s pre-tournament camp because of a grade-two calf injury. Despite hopes for a quick recovery, Ancelotti confirmed during a pre-match press conference that the forward is not yet fit to play against Morocco.

This absence presents a significant challenge for Brazil, who will face one of the toughest opponents in their group without their all-time leading scorer. Neymar is currently following an individual rehabilitation program while the rest of the squad prepares for the tournament’s kickoff.

Addressing Neymar’s status, Ancelotti explained the decision not to replace the injured player in the World Cup squad. "Neymar is working very hard to recover as quickly as possible," the Italian coach said. "The expectation is that he can rejoin the group [training] next week."

Ancelotti emphasized that Neymar’s inclusion was based not only on his technical skill but also on the experience and leadership he provides to younger teammates.

Despite Brazil’s optimism, reports from UOL indicate growing concerns that Neymar may miss more than just the opening match. Initial medical assessments suggested a two to three week recovery period, which could allow Neymar to be available for Brazil’s second group game against Haiti on June 20.

However, the forward has not played competitively since May 17, and the coaching staff are cautious about rushing his return due to his history of recurring injuries. This uncertainty leaves Neymar’s participation in the group stage unclear.

Brazil now faces the early tournament phase without one of their most experienced players. Morocco poses an immediate test, while medical personnel continue to evaluate Neymar’s progress carefully.

The priority appears to be ensuring Neymar is fully fit for the later rounds of the World Cup rather than risking an early comeback. Whether he will be ready for the Haiti match or return only in the knockout stages remains a key question as Brazil’s campaign begins.