Story perspectives

Brazil swaps defender, recalls Neymar for final World Cup

6/9/2026

Summary

Brazil Revamps Squad

Brazil replaced injured right back Wesley with Atalanta midfielder Ederson before its Group C opener against Morocco on June 13.
Brazil recalled 34-year-old forward Neymar after a three-year absence, likely his final World Cup.
The squad also includes Barcelona’s Raphinha, Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior, Casemiro, and defenders Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães.
Brazil trains at Columbia Park Training Facility in Morris Township, New Jersey, near Metlife Stadium.

Summary

Neymar Recovering

The federation reported that MRI scans on Monday confirmed Neymar’s calf injury is improving.
He is training indoors on an anti-gravity treadmill to reduce stress on the damaged muscle.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti says Neymar could be fit for the opening game or the second match, with no hurry.
Neymar, who has 79 goals in 128 caps, hopes to earn a fourth World Cup despite ACL, meniscus and calf injuries.

Summary

USWNT Defeated

USWNT lost 2-1 to Brazil in São Paulo, with Sophia Wilson scoring early before Brazil answered twice.
Hayes said the Brazilian setting forces U.S. players out of comfort zones and highlighted Brazil’s ball-less grappling warm-up, contrasting U.S. habits.
Hayes described the 31,000-strong crowd as a “12th player” influencing the game.
Mallory Swanson stayed out as Hayes manages her post-maternity return, delaying the “Triple Espresso” reunion.

History

Historical Context

Brazil won its fourth World Cup in 1994, defeating Italy on penalties after a 0-0 final and seeing Romário earn the Golden Ball with five goals. Coach Carlos Alberto Parreira led the side through a 24-team tournament that set attendance records. Now, the 2026 squad—featuring Neymar, Ederson and Vinícius Júnior—faces injury woes as it prepares for Group C in New Jersey.

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Brazil Revamps Squad

Brazil replaced injured right back Wesley with Atalanta midfielder Ederson before its Group C opener against Morocco on June 13.
Brazil recalled 34-year-old forward Neymar after a three-year absence, likely his final World Cup.
The squad also includes Barcelona’s Raphinha, Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior, Casemiro, and defenders Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães.
Brazil trains at Columbia Park Training Facility in Morris Township, New Jersey, near Metlife Stadium.

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