Neymar ruled out of friendlies, doubts World Cup debut

Brazilian football star Neymar Jr has suffered a setback in his efforts to play in Brazil's first match in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The tournament is scheduled to take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada from June 11. Neymar has been ruled out of the upcoming international friendly matches against Panama and Egypt. He joined the national camp on Wednesday but missed the first training session due to a bruised right calf. Further medical evaluations were conducted, and scans confirmed a Grade 2 calf injury. According to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) medical department, Neymar will need around two to three weeks to recover. This leaves his chances of playing in Brazil's first World Cup match uncertain. Neymar had played down concerns about his availability for the World Cup earlier this week. Right-back Danilo was the only other absentee from the group of 23 players who reported to manager Carlo Ancelotti. The friendly matches against Panama and Egypt are scheduled for this Sunday and June 5, respectively. Brazil's first World Cup match is set to take place on June 11.