Brazilian soccer star Neymar is facing the possibility of missing Brazil's opening match in the 2026 World Cup due to a calf injury. The 34-year-old forward, who is Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, has not played for his country since 2023. Neymar's injury was confirmed through medical scans, raising concerns about his availability for the tournament.

Neymar missed Brazil's first training session at Granja Comary to undergo medical tests at a private clinic in Teresopolis. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has stated that no further information will be released until the national team's medical staff completes their assessments. This development has become a major storyline as Brazil prepares for the World Cup.

Brazil's manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has emphasized that Neymar's inclusion in the squad will depend on his fitness and form, not his reputation. Ancelotti has already ruled out three players from Brazil's upcoming friendly against Panama due to their involvement in the Champions League final. Brazil will face Panama on Sunday (May 31) at the Maracana before playing Egypt in Cleveland in their final friendly. Their World Cup campaign begins against Morocco on June 13 in New Jersey.

Neymar's recall to the national team generated excitement, as he had not featured in Ancelotti's plans during the manager's tenure. However, his injury history and recent form have been under scrutiny. Brazil, drawn in Group C with Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland, awaits the medical verdict to determine if Neymar will be fit to compete in the tournament.

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Scott Ryfun