Will Neymar play Brazil vs Haiti FIFA World Cup 2026?

Neymar eyes FIFA World Cup comeback (Image: ANI) Brazil will look to get their 2026 World Cup campaign back on track when they face Haiti in their second Group C match on Friday (local time), with head coach Carlo Ancelotti expressing confidence that his side can overcome the shortcomings revealed in their tournament opener. There is still the question of whether their star player Neymar Jr. available for night or not?The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed the 34-year-old will miss the match with a lingering grade two strain in his right calf, dealing a blow to Brazil as they seek their first win of the tournament.

Neymar did not travel with the team for the match in Philadelphia. Instead, he remained at Brazil’s training base in New Jersey, where he continues his rehabilitation program under the supervision of the team’s medical staff. Although the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star returned to the training pitch earlier this week and took part in light running exercises, Brazil are unwilling to rush his recovery.Head coach Carlo Ancelotti and the medical team are said to be proceeding with caution, prioritizing Neymar’s long-term fitness over a quick return during the group stage.

When could Neymar return?

The current plan is for Neymar to miss Brazil’s remaining matches in Group C, including the upcoming game against Scotland, with the aim of being fully fit for the knockout rounds, which begin on June 29. His progress is encouraging, but Brazil are determined not to risk aggravating the injury at a crucial stage of the tournament.Brazil under pressureBrazil entered the clash in Haiti under pressure after being held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their opening game. The five-time world champions failed to capitalize on several chances and now need a positive result to boost their hopes of progressing to the knockout stages. In Neymar’s absence, much of the creative burden will fall on Real Madrid duo Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, who are expected to front Brazil’s attack.