Brazil's Neymar Jr. during training ahead of the Scotland game. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Ever since the start of the FIFA World Cup 2026, there has been an anticipation over Neymar Jr.’s availability for Brazil in the group stages.

The 34-year-old Neymar, who is playing in his fourth World Cup, has been sidelined since suffering a calf injury to his right leg while playing for Santos in Brazil on May 17.

He missed Brazil’s opening game 1-1 draw against Morocco and the 3-0 win over Haiti last week.

There has been a positive development since with Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirming that Neymar will be fit to take part in its final Group C game against Scotland on Wednesday at the Miami Gardens.

“Neymar is available,” Ancelotti told reporters on Tuesday. “He worked this week ‌and can be available for the match. We are very happy that he is back because, obviously, with his quality, he can help the team.

However, the Italian cautioned that Neymar may not take the field.

“I’ve ‌really got to know him well. He has worked very seriously, trying to ‌recover ⁠as quickly as possible.

“I’m very happy with him. Even if he doesn’t ⁠play, he brings experience, he brings knowledge of the game, he helps the younger players. He is doing very well.”

Published on Jun 25, 2026