Brazil have been without Neymar since October 2023, when he tore the anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee in a 2026 World Cup qualifying loss to Uruguay.

He has been named in the Brazil squad for games against Colombia and Argentina later this month after regaining his fitness and form for Santos. After a lacklustre first three games, the 33-year-old has exploded since, scoring three goals and providing three assists in his last four appearances.

However, Neymar suffered a muscle problem in Santos' 2-0 win over Bragantino on March 2. It caused him to miss Santos' last two matches. And the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) also confirmed that Neymar will miss the national team's two matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Instead of calling up Antony, Brazil put their faith in Endrick, who was in poor form.

Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson and Flamengo defender Danilo suffered similar fates due to lack of fitness. "After the initial call-up, the national team's medical department updated us on the situation of all the players, especially Danilo from Flamengo, Neymar from Santos and Ederson from Manchester City," said coach Dorival.

"After conducting an assessment, we have decided to call up Lucas Perri from Lyon, Alex Sandro from Flamengo and Endrick from Real Madrid to replace the injured players."

Brazil, who are fifth in the South American World Cup qualifying standings, will host Colombia on March 20 before visiting Argentina on March 25. The top six teams will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, so Brazil are in a very delicate position. If they do not get at least three points from these two matches, they could fall out of the Top 6.

Source: https://tienphong.vn/vua-len-tuyen-brazil-duoc-vai-ngay-neymar-lai-bi-gach-ten-post1725138.tpo