Neymar Sidelined for Brazil's World Cup 2026 Opener Against Morocco

The highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign for Brazil is set to begin with a significant challenge, as veteran forward Neymar has been ruled out of their opening match against Morocco due to a calf injury. The 34-year-old, though remaining with the squad, will miss the initial fixture but is expected to feature later in the tournament, which is being co-hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Neymar's inclusion in the squad, despite recent injury woes and limited playing time since his return to Santos, has reportedly sparked considerable discussion within Brazil. His absence for the opener adds to a list of unavailable players, including defender Wesley França, also sidelined by injury. Notably, Chelsea striker João Pedro, despite a prolific scoring season with 20 goals across all competitions, was a high-profile omission from the squad.

Meanwhile, Morocco enters the tournament with a significantly elevated status following their groundbreaking performance at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. There, the Atlas Lions became the first African and Arab nation to reach the semi-finals, transforming perceptions from plucky underdogs to legitimate contenders. Their reputation for defensive organisation, potent counter-attacks, and a roster featuring numerous European-based talents positions them as a formidable opponent capable of challenging football's traditional giants.

Brazil, the most decorated nation in World Cup history, is keen to end a two-decade drought, having last lifted the trophy in 2002. Tasked with restoring the Seleção to their former glory, veteran Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti has taken the helm, with immense expectations resting on his shoulders to guide them deep into the tournament in June and July of 2026.