Brazilian coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed on June 12 that star forward Neymar will not play in Brazil’s opening 2026 World Cup group match against Morocco due to a calf injury sustained in mid-May [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. Although Neymar will be on the bench, he will not wear the team kit or take the field during the match in which Brazil faces the eighth-ranked Moroccan side [5, 1, 3, 4].

Neymar, 34, last played competitively on May 17 for Santos before the injury sidelined him from all subsequent Brazil World Cup preparation matches and training since May 27 [1, 3, 4, 5]. The injury to his right calf muscle has required intensive physiotherapy and treatment, keeping him out of team drills [5].

Ancelotti said, "He is working hard to be fit again as quickly as possible. We hope he can return to full training next week," underscoring Brazil’s cautious approach toward Neymar’s swift recovery [1]. The coach also noted Neymar’s value beyond skills, citing his experience and leadership as key for the squad [2].

Teammate Vinicius Junior called Neymar “an inspiration” and wished him a "speedy recovery," expressing eagerness for Neymar’s return to the pitch [1]. Neymar, who has scored 79 goals in 128 caps—making him Brazil’s all-time leading scorer—had previously contributed 8 goals and 4 assists across 13 World Cup matches [2, 1, 3, 4]. If he plays later in the tournament, it would mark his fourth World Cup appearance [1, 2, 3, 4].

Brazil, currently ranked sixth by FIFA, opens against Morocco, ranked eighth, in a high-stakes match today, June 13 [1, 3, 4]. Brazil has won 7 of 8 prior World Cup games against African teams, with the only loss coming last year to Cameroon [1, 3, 4]. Brazil’s lineup for the opener includes players such as Alisson, Marquinhos, Casemiro, and Vinícius Jr., but notably excludes Neymar [5].

Neymar is expected to return to full training with the squad next week, though his availability for Brazil’s second group stage match against Haiti on June 20 remains uncertain [1, 2, 5].

Brazil will monitor Neymar’s recovery carefully ahead of their upcoming fixtures in the tournament.