Neymar Ruled Out of Brazil vs Morocco World Cup Opener, Ancelotti Confident of Quick Return. Brazil’s FIFA 2026 World Cup opening match against Morocco will have to be played without Neymar due to injury. Neymar is recovering from a Grade 2 calf strain suffered while playing with Santos on May 17. This injury occurred before the World Cup. Brazil’s opening match in Group C vs Morocco will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This is one of the most anticipated games of the first round. This represents a big loss for both Brazil and their fans in the absence of Neymar.
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The World Cup is the first major tournament for Neymar under new coach Carlo Ancelotti. He became the first foreign coach to oversee Brazil at a World Cup. Despite these setbacks, Ancelotti is still optimistic about Neymar’s recovery. The medical staff expects Neymar’s return to full training to occur on June 17. Neymar could return in time for Brazil’s game against Haiti on June 19. The Brazilian team is being very careful with Neymar as he rehabs in hopes of avoiding additional problems.
There was a lot of debate leading up to the World Cup about whether Neymar would be selected for the squad due to his recent injury status, and many fans wanted to see João Pedro on the roster instead of the injured veteran. The young striker came to this competition in top form & impressed all season long. Ancelotti supported Neymar for his experience as well as his leadership.
Brazil Trust Squad Depth Against Morocco
Brazil has one of the strongest attacking groups in the competition. Raphinha will play an important role in the first match. Vinícius Júnior continues to be one of the game’s most dangerous forwards. Rodrygo provides creativity, speed, & versatility to the attack for Brazil. This combined ability of the players gives Brazil confidence without Neymar. Morocco arrives at the tournament with confidence and expectations.
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The African team enter the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup. Building confidence within all of Moroccan football. Brazil is still the favourite, but it will not be easy to overcome. Ancelotti hopes his team can create some momentum and secure the win. The Seleção also hopes Neymar returns quickly to play in the rest of the group games.