Neymar still absent from Brazil training ahead of World Cup opener

Neymar was absent from Brazil's training session on Wednesday, continuing his rehabilitation for a calf injury. The team is preparing for their World Cup opener against Morocco on Saturday. Coach Carlo Ancelotti, tasked with ending Brazil's 24-year World Cup drought, celebrated his 67th birthday with a guard of honor from his players. Forward Raphinha joked that the players opted for a gentle reception.

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He passed through it, ⁠but nobody touched him.

Neymar is certain to miss the first game, and it remains unclear if he will play in subsequent group matches against Haiti and Scotland. The 34-year-old suffered a grade-two calf injury in mid-May while playing for Santos. His absence is a significant concern for the Seleção.

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Brazil is not the ​great favourite, but it has good players that can come together to form a good ‌team. ⁠I think it has its chances.

Despite Neymar's injury, Brazilian pundits expressed optimism. Zinho, a key midfielder from Brazil's 1994 World Cup-winning team and now an ESPN pundit, believes the team has a good chance. He noted that while Brazil may not be the outright favorite, the players can form a strong unit. Zinho anticipates a cautious approach against Morocco, who reached the semi-finals in the last World Cup.

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He will have a team that ​defends and ⁠waits for the opponents’ actions, before trying to be quick in the transition to attack once it has the ball.

Radio commentator Benjamin Back stated that Ancelotti would maintain the team's style, focusing on defense and quick transitions. He described the squad as young, physically fit, and well-coached, placing Brazil among the tournament favorites. Brazil's first match will be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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It is a young group, ⁠with ​good physical condition, and a great coach. ​I would put Brazil among the favourites.