Neymar sidelined by injury as Brazil faces opening matches at World Cup 2026

Brazilian star Neymar has returned to the team's training camp in New Jersey after a gradual recovery from a right thigh muscle injury, but medical staff say he is not yet fit for the tournament's opening games. The coaching team intends to avoid risking a setback and expects Neymar to miss Brazil’s first group matches against Haiti and Scotland, hoping he can contribute later in the knockout stages. The team, placed in Group C with Morocco, Scotland and Haiti, opened the 2026 World Cup – hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico – with a 1‑1 draw against Morocco. Fans and teammates, including Douglas Santos, have expressed optimism that Neymar will regain full fitness before the decisive rounds.

The Brazilian federation remains cautious, emphasizing a structured rehabilitation program and avoiding premature minutes on the field. Continued monitoring and further medical tests are planned before any decision on his inclusion in upcoming matches.