Blow for Brazil Ahead of Opening World Cup Clash Against Morocco: Star Player Potentially Out for Entire Group Stage

Pulse Sports Team 23:06 - 10 June 2026

Brazil is among the favorites for the World Cup title, but may have to navigate the group stage without star player Neymar. The Santos forward, much to his delight, was called up by national coach Carlo Ancelotti, but is almost certainly set to miss the opening match against Morocco.

Star player Neymar is almost certainly out for Brazil's opening World Cup group stage match against Morocco. The forward has not yet recovered from a calf injury and was absent from Brazil's training complex in Morristown, New Jersey, on Wednesday.

Doubtful

Five-time world champions Brazil will face Morocco on Saturday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. This match will be followed by group stage fixtures against Haiti and Scotland. It remains questionable whether the 34-year-old Neymar will be fit to play in those subsequent matches.

All-Time Top Scorer

Neymar is Brazil's all-time leading scorer, having netted 79 goals in 128 international appearances and participating in three World Cups with Brazil. Last season, he missed numerous games for Santos in the Brazilian league due to injuries. Despite this, his call-up brought joy to his nation's fans. The only question now is if, and for how long, he will be seen on the pitch at the World Cup.

Injuries

Prior to the World Cup squad announcement, Brazil was already plagued by a spate of injuries to key players. Estevao (Chelsea), Eder Militao (Real Madrid), and Rodrygo (Real Madrid), among others, were unavailable for selection. To make matters worse, defender Wesley of AS Roma sustained an injury during World Cup preparations and had to return home. He was replaced by Ederson from