Neymar will miss Brazil’s second World Cup group match against Haiti as the veteran forward continues his recovery from a calf injury in New Jersey.
Brazil will be without Neymar once again when they take on Haiti in their second Group C match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the veteran forward continuing his recovery from a calf injury.
The Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed on Thursday that the 34-year-old will not travel with the rest of the squad to Philadelphia, where Carlo Ancelotti’s side are scheduled to face Haiti.
Instead, Neymar will remain at Brazil’s training base in New Jersey to focus on the final phase of his rehabilitation programme. The federation said he would continue working at the team’s facilities, taking advantage of the resources available at The Ridge hotel and the Columbia Park training centre.
The news comes despite encouraging signs earlier this week. Neymar was seen back on the training pitch on Wednesday, participating in drills after initially completing a separate warm-up session with the ball.
It marked another positive step in his recovery process after spending much of the past few weeks training indoors under the supervision of physiotherapists and fitness coaches.
Brazil’s medical staff have adopted a cautious approach with the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star, determined not to rush him back before he is fully fit.
Neymar suffered the injury during Santos’ 3-0 defeat to Coritiba last month. The calf problem is the latest setback in a career that has been heavily disrupted by injuries in recent years, limiting his opportunities with both club and country.
His absence continues to be a major talking point for Brazil, who opened their World Cup campaign with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Morocco. With just one point on the board, the five-time world champions will be eager to secure their first victory of the tournament against Haiti, who sit bottom of the group after losing their opening match to Scotland.
