Sport: Soccer Country: Brazil Category: Injuries

Neymar expected to play for Brazil against Japan in World Cup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 11:43 PM

Last updated Jun 28, 2026

Neymar expected to play for Brazil against Japan in World Cup

Summary

Neymar is anticipated to participate in Brazil's World Cup round of 32 match against Japan on June 30. Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Neymar's significant progress from a calf injury that limited his appearances in the tournament. After missing the first two games, Neymar returned as a substitute against Scotland, playing 15 minutes. Ancelotti did not disclose the starting lineup but suggested Neymar could increase his playing time if necessary. Neymar's journey back follows a serious knee injury and a subsequent calf issue, with his latest match against Scotland marking his first appearance for Brazil in nearly three years.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Neymar expected to play against Japan on June 30.
•He returned from injury as a substitute against Scotland.
•Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti praised Neymar's progress.
•Neymar suffered a knee injury in October 2023.
•His return marks his first match with Brazil in nearly three years.

Latest Updates

4:17 AMYahoo Sports — Will Neymar Play Against Japan? Brazil Gets Key World Cup Injury Update
11:43 PMYahoo Sports — Neymar injury update: Will Brazil star play in World Cup round of 32 vs Japan?

What they're saying

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Brazil got a key injury update on Neymar ahead of their World Cup round of 32 game against Japan. The post Will Neymar Play Against Japan? Brazil Gets Key World Cup Injury Update appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports