Brazil moves Neymar to super‑sub role as World Cup 2026 campaign unfolds

Former Brazil striker Romário said Neymar is no longer an automatic starter in the national team, noting that coach Carlo Ancelotti now uses him off the bench to preserve his fitness and protect younger attackers. The shift follows Neymar’s injury problems and limited club play, while Vinícius Júnior has taken over the starting forward position.

Brazil secured a 2‑1 comeback win over Japan in the World Cup Round of 32, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring in the 95th minute. Ancelotti explained he held Neymar back for possible extra‑time, a decision Neymar later mocked on social media by teasing German economist Joachim Klement, whose model had predicted Brazil’s elimination. The victory sends Brazil to the Round of 16, where they will face Norway (or Ivory Coast) on 6 July.