Neymar Ruled Out of Brazil's FIFA World Cup 2026 Opener Against Morocco Due to Calf Injury

Brazil will begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Morocco without star forward Neymar as he is yet to recover fully from a calf injury.

Selecao coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the 34-year-old's omission from Saturday's Group C clash.

Brazil's all-time leading scorer Neymar is nursing a grade-two calf injury sustained shortly before the tournament and has missed two friendly games in the lead-up to the match.

Ancelotti said the Santos forward was making progress but would not be risked in the opening game of the five-time champions.

"He's working hard to get fit as quickly as possible. We hope he can return to full training next week," the Italian said.

Ancelotti expects Neymar to be fit for their next two matches in the group stage, with Brazil scheduled to face Haiti and Scotland after the Morocco clash.

In Neymar's absence, onus of scoring lied on the likes of Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Rodrygo and Endrick as Ancelotti reflected on the significance of leading Brazil at the World Cup.

"It's a new experience, it's a new responsibility to represent the country of football. It comes down to two words: responsibility and honour," he said.