Brazilian star forward Neymar will miss Brazil’s World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina due to a thigh injury.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed Neymar’s absence, stating that the 33-year-old forward would not be available for the Brazil’s World Cup Qualifiers against Colombia.
Neymar, who has not represented Brazil since October 2023 due to a knee injury, had hoped to make his return but now faces another setback.
Neymar’s Injury Setback
Neymar shared his disappointment about missing the World Cup qualifiers with his followers on Instagram.
He explained that while his return seemed close, he would not take any risks with his recovery.
He emphasized that it was best to allow the injury to fully heal, so he could return to peak fitness.
Neymar had been showing promising form since returning to Santos, his original club, in January 2023.
In seven matches, Neymar had scored three goals and provided three assists, showing glimpses of his best form.
However, this thigh injury has derailed his plans to return to the national team just when he was nearing full fitness.
Brazil’s Upcoming Matches
Brazil’s next fixtures in the World Cup qualifiers are against Colombia and Argentina, with the first match scheduled for March 20 in Brasilia, and the second one five days later in Buenos Aires.
These matches are crucial for Brazil, who are currently sitting fifth in the 10-team South American group with 18 points from 12 matches.
The five-time World Cup champions are trailing Argentina, the leaders of the group, by seven points.
Despite Neymar’s absence, Brazil remains determined to secure vital points in their bid for qualification.
The team has plenty of talent to compensate for Neymar’s absence, but it will require collective effort to stay in the race for the top spots.
Squad Adjustments & Replacements
In addition to Neymar’s injury, the CBF also announced some changes to the squad for the upcoming qualifiers.
Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri and Flamengo defender Alex Sandro will replace Manchester City’s Ederson and Flamengo’s right-back Danilo.
Endrick, the teenage forward from Real Madrid, has also been called up to replace Neymar.
Endrick has had an impressive season with Real Madrid, scoring six goals in 28 appearances, and will now be looking to contribute to Brazil’s World Cup qualifying campaign in Neymar’s absence.
With Neymar sidelined once again, Brazil’s pursuit of qualification for the 2026 World Cup will depend on other key players stepping up.
The Brazilian national team remains one of the most successful teams in World Cup history, and despite the setbacks, they are determined to bounce back and challenge for a top position in the South American region.
As the qualifiers progress, Brazil will continue to fight for their place in the global competition, but Neymar’s injury has certainly thrown a wrench in their plans.
The team must rally together to maintain momentum and secure their spot in the tournament.
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