Is Neymar playing vs. Morocco? Latest on Brazil star’s injury recovery at World Cup 2026
Neymar made a long-awaited return to the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup and the superstar forward is eyeing what is likely to be his final shot at soccer’s biggest global prize.
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A month after overtaking the great Pele as Brazil’s all-time top scorer, Neymar sustained a ruptured ACL and meniscus in his left knee during an October 2023 World Cup qualifier against Uruguay.
It has been a long road back to fitness and the 34-year-old has not played for the Selecao since.
There was, therefore, great intrigue when Carlo Ancelotti named Neymar in his 26-man squad for this summer’s World Cup.
But the former Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona favourite’s injury problems are not behind him just yet.
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Is Neymar injured?
Neymar was called up for the World Cup despite struggling with a calf injury, which kept him out of both of Brazil’s warm-up games against Panama and Egypt.
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After medical checks on the problem, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said: «The exam showed good progress in his treatment, within expected parameters.
«He will continue the recovery and physical preparation process planned by the Brazilian National Team’s medical staff.»
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Will Neymar play against Morocco?
As things stand, Neymar is not expected to play in Brazil’s opening game against Morocco in New Jersey on Saturday June 13.
A statement from the CBF on June 8 said Neymar was targetting the Morocco game, but a report the following day by sports newspaper Globo stated he would not be ready in time.
Neymar is expected to play a part in the tournament, though, with Brazil’s second Group C game against Haiti on June 20 in Philadelphia a more realistic target for his return.
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Brazil World Cup schedule
| Date | Time (ET) | Match | Location |
| Sat, Jun. 13 | 6 p.m. | Brazil vs. Morocco | MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ) |
| Fri, Jun. 19 | 9 p.m. | Brazil vs. Haiti | Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA) |
| Wed, Jun. 24 | 6 p.m. | Scotland vs. Brazil | Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens, FL) |
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