Why Neymar Isn't Playing in Brazil's 2026 World Cup Opener vs. Morocco
Neymar is ruled out with a calf injury as Brazil turn to Vinicius Jr. and new coach Carlo Ancelotti to chase a sixth title.
- Brazil faces Morocco in their 2026 World Cup opener on Saturday at MetLife Stadium, with Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior leading the squad as Neymar remains ruled out due to a calf injury.
- The Brazilian Football Confederation hired Carlo Ancelotti to stabilize the team after losses in the 2021 Copa America final, 2022 World Cup quarterfinals, and 2024 Copa America quarterfinals. Vinicius credits his former club coach with providing crucial confidence for this tournament.
- Morocco enters with high expectations after reaching the 2022 World Cup semifinal; defender Achraf Hakimi leads the Atlas Lions. Manager Mohamed Ouahbi confirmed two late injury changes but insisted the team will not alter their tactical approach.
- Vinicius, the 25-year-old Real Madrid star, stated on Friday, "This is the most important time in my life and in my career," emphasizing his determination to help Brazil secure a sixth World Cup title.
- Group C play presents a challenging start for Brazil's return to prominence, while other tournament openers continue with manager Mauricio Pochettino scouting Australia and Turkey as the 2026 World Cup schedule intensifies.
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Neymar is ruled out to play in Brazil's 2026 World Cup debut, but will be in the South American team's seat on Saturday, June 13.The Brazilian star, Neymar, will go to the Brazil National Team's alternates for the 2026 World Cup debut against Morocco, but will not play due to a muscle injury.Ancelotti trusts in the recovery of NeymarCarlo Ancelotti, coach of Brazil, decided to keep Neymar on the official list of 26 summonses, despite the injury …
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Why Neymar isn't playing in Brazil's World Cup opener against Morocco
Neymar not quite ready for tonight’s game (Picture: FIFA via Getty Images) Neymar will not be involved in Brazil’s opening World Cup match against Morocco tonight as he continues to recovery from a calf injury. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star has not played for the Selecao since 2023 with a series of injury problems keeping him out of the international picture. But he was welcomed back by Carlo Ancelotti last month, selected fo…
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