Neymar Set to Miss World Cup Opener Against Morocco Following Calf Injury

Brazil's preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered a major setback after team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar confirmed that Neymar Jr. has been diagnosed with a grade-two calf injury.

The 34-year-old Santos forward arrived at Brazil's Granja Comary training camp complaining of discomfort and swelling in his right calf, sustained originally during his club's 3-0 defeat to Coritiba. While Santos' medical staff initially diagnosed the issue as minor swelling, a definitive MRI scan conducted by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) medical team revealed a moderate partial tear of the muscle fibers.

According to Dr. Lasmar, Neymar faces an estimated recovery timeline of two to three weeks, forcing him into a strict, isolated physiotherapy protocol.

“Neymar underwent all the medical tests, which concluded with an MRI scan revealing a grade-two calf injury, not just swelling. He is expected to be cleared in two to three weeks,” Dr. Rodrigo Lasmar stated.

Ancelotti's coaching staff has reportedly set an internal deadline around the June 6 mark to evaluate the forward's physical progression before making a final decision on whether to replace him in the official tournament squad. Under FIFA regulations, teams are permitted to make injury replacements up to 24 hours before their opening match.

For now, the Seleção must prepare to navigate their tricky group stage opener against Morocco—as well as subsequent fixtures against Haiti and Scotland—without their all-time leading goalscorer at 100% fitness.

Do you think Brazil can comfortably beat Morocco without Neymar in the lineup, or should Ancelotti consider replacing him in the squad entirely? Please drop your comments below!

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