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Brazil is in urgent need of a victory against Haiti in their second 2026 World Cup fixture, and Carlo Ancelotti's squad will have to get the job done without their record goalscorer (79) and inspirational figurehead, Neymar Jr.
The Seleção were dominated for long spells but managed to salvage a 1–1 draw against Morocco in their 2026 World Cup opener, courtesy of a moment of magic from Vinicius Junior. Morocco posed a significant test for Brazil, and improvements will be required if they are to mount a deep run in the tournament. That said, there were flashes of what Ancelotti's side is truly capable of, and with other top contenders also appearing rusty in their opening matches, there is still room for Brazil to hit its stride.
Meanwhile, while veteran icons such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Luka Modrić have already taken to the field in North America this summer, the world continues to wait for Neymar's much-anticipated 2026 World Cup bow. He won't even feature among the substitutes when the Seleção take the field at Lincoln Financial Field.
Haiti is arguably the weakest opponent Brazil will encounter this summer, so even in Neymar's absence, securing a first win is widely anticipated.
Why Neymar Is Out of Brazil's Second World Cup Game
The 34-year-old forward is still working his way back from a grade two calf injury that has sidelined him for a month. The initial prognosis suggested a return within two to three weeks, but his recovery has taken somewhat longer than first anticipated.
Neymar was included on Brazil's bench for the Morocco match, but the Brazilian football federation issued a statement on Thursday providing an update on the No. 10's condition.
"He [Neymar] will remain in New Jersey to optimize the final phase of his recovery process, making use of the excellent facilities at The Ridge Hotel and the Columbia Park Training Center," Brazil said, via ESPN.
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Ancelotti has previously noted that Neymar is doing everything he can to speed up his recovery, though reports indicate he is also a serious doubt for Brazil's final group stage clash against Scotland on June 24.
There is cautious optimism that Neymar will be fit in time for the knockout stages, which Brazil is widely expected to reach without significant difficulty, particularly if they see off Haiti. As a result, it appears increasingly probable that Neymar will make his long-awaited return for the Seleção just as Brazil's pursuit of a sixth World Cup title reaches its decisive phase.