Ancelotti Says Neymar Is Available for Brazil vs Japan in World Cup Knockout

Overview

• Carlo Ancelotti said Neymar is expected to be available for Brazil’s Round of 32 match with Japan on Monday and could be used beyond a brief cameo if game conditions warrant it.
• Neymar made his first World Cup appearance as a late substitute in the group finale against Scotland after missing Brazil’s first two games while recovering from a calf strain.
• Brazil’s medical team monitored Neymar with MRI reassessments and technology‑assisted rehab tools during his recovery to reduce re‑injury risk and preserve his place on the 26‑player roster.
• Ancelotti declined to confirm a starting lineup and said playing time will be managed through load monitoring, reflecting a cautious plan to protect Neymar’s fitness for later rounds.
• Neymar’s comeback follows a longer run of injury setbacks, including major knee surgery in October 2023 and a May calf problem at Santos, which shaped pre‑tournament fitness debates and Brazil’s tactical planning.