Brazil faces Morocco without Neymar due to ongoing recovery delay
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New Jersey: Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has indicated that Neymar could miss the team's entire FIFA World Cup group-stage campaign as the forward continues to recover from a calf injury.
Brazil will be without the 34-year-old for their opening Group F match against Morocco on Saturday, with Ancelotti saying Neymar is progressing well but is not yet ready to return to action.
"He is working hard to be fit again as quickly as possible. We hope he can return to full training next week," Ancelotti said ahead of the clash in New Jersey.
Brazil's remaining group-stage fixtures are against Haiti on June 19 and Scotland on June 24. However, Ancelotti stopped short of confirming whether Neymar would be available for either match.
The Santos striker has not featured since his surprise recall to the national squad by Ancelotti and was again absent from training on Friday. He also missed Brazil's warm-up matches against Panama and Egypt while continuing his rehabilitation.
Despite concerns over the veteran forward's fitness, Ancelotti defended his decision to include Neymar in the World Cup squad.
"He can be a good example for the younger players in our squad," the Italian said.
The first foreign coach to manage Brazil's national team, Ancelotti believes Neymar's experience and leadership remain valuable assets as the five-time champions pursue a record-extending sixth World Cup title.
Brazil winger Vinícius Júnior also voiced his support for his teammate.
"He inspires me. I wish him a speedy recovery and I am looking forward to him finally being back on the pitch," Vinícius said.
Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi said Neymar's likely absence would not alter his team's preparations.
"We prepared for a match with and without Neymar. Nothing changes for us," he said.
Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi admitted he would have liked the opportunity to face the Brazilian star.
"I want to play against the best players, and Neymar is among the best," said the Paris Saint-Germain defender.
While Ancelotti remains hopeful that Neymar can return later in the tournament, Brazil will have to begin their World Cup campaign without one of their most influential players.
(Inputs from IANS)
