World Cup 2026 / Brazil - Morocco: The verdict on Neymar is in! (Official)

13.06.26 FT World Cup

Brazil

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Morocco

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Carlo Ancelotti made it official in a press conference: Neymar will not feature against Morocco in Brazil's opening match of the 2026 World Cup.

Brazil will have to wait before seeing their talisman back on the pitch. Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed in a press conference that Neymar is ruled out for the Seleção's opener against Morocco. Still in recovery, the Santos forward has yet to return to full team training, with his comeback expected next week.

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The Brazilian coach, however, sought to reassure fans.

"Neymar is working tirelessly to recover as quickly as possible. We hope he'll be fit and join the squad next week. When you call up Neymar, it's not just for his undeniable technical quality, but also for his experience and the example he sets for the younger players," said Ancelotti.

As a result, Brazil will have to do without their most iconic player for this opening clash—a further challenge against an Atlas Lions side eager to prove themselves.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

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Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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