Neymar Continues Recovery as Brazil Prepares for World Cup Opener Against Morocco
Brazil's star forward Neymar remained absent from training on Wednesday as the team prepared for their World Cup match against Morocco on Saturday, continuing rehabilitation from a calf injury sustained in May. The injury, classified as grade-two, will keep the 34-year-old sidelined for at least the opening match, with uncertainty about his availability for subsequent group games. Despite Neymar's absence, Brazilian analysts expressed optimism about the team's prospects under coach Carlo Ancelotti, who celebrated his 67th birthday with the squad.
Neymar was absent from Brazil's training session in Morristown, New Jersey on Wednesday as the squad prepared for their World Cup curtain-raiser against Morocco scheduled for Saturday. The Paris Saint-Germain forward is recovering from a grade-two calf injury sustained while playing for Santos in mid-May and is certain to miss the opening match, with no confirmation yet on his participation in subsequent group matches against Haiti and Scotland. Coach Carlo Ancelotti, tasked with ending Brazil's 24-year drought for a sixth World Cup title, celebrated his 67th birthday with the team in a traditional guard of honour. Despite Neymar's absence, Brazilian football analysts present at the training ground remained optimistic about the team's chances, with former World Cup winner Zinho and radio commentator Benjamin Back both expressing confidence in Ancelotti's tactical approach and the squad's physical condition. The opening match will be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
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Neymar still absent from Brazil training as squad celebrate Ancelotti's birthday
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