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Ancelotti Says Neymar Benched for Brazil-Morocco Clash

6/14/2026

Summary

Neymar Benched

Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Neymar will sit on the bench and not play against Morocco.
Neymar, undergoing intensive right-calf treatment since October 2023, missed training after joining on May 27, received physiotherapy Saturday, and will travel with Brazil to MetLife Stadium hours before the match despite not being in the squad.
Brazil’s starting XI features Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, Alex Sandro; Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães; Lucas Paquetá, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha and Vinícius Jr.

Summary

Neymar Breaks Record

Neymar overtook Pelé with 79 goals in 128 matches, becoming Brazil’s all-time leading scorer.
He returned to Santos in January 2025 after ending his Al-Hilal contract because of an ACL injury.
In 2025 Neymar recorded six goals and four assists for Santos.
Brazil’s 26-man 2026 roster lists 11 forwards, including Endrick and Rayan.
Morocco’s 2022 World Cup run made them reach a semi-final, adding intrigue to their 2026 clash with Brazil.

Summary

Neymar Rehab

Brazil’s medical staff plan a cautious rehab for Neymar, who has not played since May 17 and must rebuild fitness before any World Cup appearance.
Vinicius Junior says he draws inspiration from Neymar and looks forward to his idol’s return.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti says there is no clear favourite for the World Cup, calls it balanced, and notes Brazil will focus on the group-stage challenge despite Neymar’s absence.

History

Historical Context

Brazil hosted the 2014 World Cup and, on 8 July 2014, suffered a 7-1 semi-final defeat to Germany—the largest margin ever in a World Cup semi-final and the worst loss for a host nation. The humiliation prompted Scolari’s resignation, a focus on squad depth, and the nurturing of prospects such as Endrick, shaping the 2026 selection dilemma.

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Neymar Benched

Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Neymar will sit on the bench and not play against Morocco.
Neymar, undergoing intensive right-calf treatment since October 2023, missed training after joining on May 27, received physiotherapy Saturday, and will travel with Brazil to MetLife Stadium hours before the match despite not being in the squad.
Brazil’s starting XI features Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, Alex Sandro; Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães; Lucas Paquetá, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha and Vinícius Jr.

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