Neymar Suffers Calf Injury, Likely to Miss Brazil's World Cup Opener

Brazilian football star Neymar is facing a significant setback after sustaining a grade two calf injury. The injury will force him to miss Brazil's upcoming friendly matches and casts serious doubt on his participation in the team's opening game of the 2026 World Cup.

Rodrigo Lasmar, the medical chief of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), confirmed the severity of the injury during a recent press conference. "Neymar was at Granja Comary yesterday, underwent all medical tests. The MRI results showed he has a grade two calf injury, not just swelling," Lasmar stated. "He is expected to return to play in two to three weeks."

With this diagnosis, Neymar will be absent from Brazil's friendlies against Panama on June 1 and Egypt on June 7. More critically, his participation in Brazil's World Cup opener against African champions Morocco on June 13 is now highly improbable. The 34-year-old forward is Brazil's all-time leading scorer, surpassing even Pelé.

Neymar's recent injury history has been a point of concern, with frequent setbacks impacting his playing time. He has not represented Brazil since October 2023. His inclusion in the World Cup squad had already sparked debate due to his declining form and persistent injuries over the past three years.

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Neymar was at Granja Comary yesterday, underwent all medical tests. The MRI results showed he has a grade two calf injury, not just swelling. He is expected to return to play in two to three weeks.