Neymar Feels Like a Teenager Ahead of Likely Final World Cup, Battles Injury

Brazilian football icon Neymar is gearing up for what he anticipates will be his final World Cup appearance at the age of 34, though a calf injury casts doubt on his participation in the opening match. Despite persistent physical issues in recent seasons, Neymar expressed a youthful exuberance, stating he feels like an 18-year-old embarking on his first World Cup.

The star forward, who has scored 79 goals for Brazil, has been sidelined since May 17 and has not trained with his teammates in the United States. While his absence against Morocco in the group stage opener is considered likely, he is expected to return for the second match against Haiti.

Neymar's inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti's squad was a surprise given his recent struggles. However, the player's enthusiasm remains high as he aims to secure Brazil's sixth World Cup title, a feat they haven't achieved since 2002. His best World Cup performance was in 2014 when Brazil hosted, but the team was eliminated in the semifinals with a devastating 7-1 loss to Germany.

In a preview for the upcoming documentary "Vai, Brasil," Neymar reflected on the unique feeling of this tournament. "Although it's my fourth World Cup, it's a different sensation because of everything involved, and obviously, it's the last one," he stated. He added, "I'm here feeling like a kid, an 18-year-old going to his first World Cup."

At 34, Neymar represents Brazil's primary hope to end their two-decade World Cup drought. His journey through the tournaments since 2014 has been marked by near misses, and this final campaign offers him a chance to change history and achieve ultimate glory.