Brazil, on May 30, (V7N) coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed optimism about Brazil star Neymar’s recovery from a calf strain. Despite earlier reports suggesting the 34-year-old forward might be sidelined for three weeks, Ancelotti said Neymar is progressing well and could be ready for Brazil’s World Cup opener against Morocco on June 13 in New Jersey.Ancelotti added, "We expect him back very soon, and if he misses the first match, he’ll be available for the second."Neymar, formerly of Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain and currently playing for Santos, will miss Brazil’s upcoming friendlies against Panama and Egypt.
Brazil is set to face Panama at Maracanã Stadium on Sunday, then travel to New Jersey, with a final warm-up match against Egypt scheduled for June 6 in Cleveland.Neymar’s inclusion in Ancelotti’s 26-man World Cup squad was somewhat unexpected, as he hadn’t played for the national team in nearly three years due to injuries and inconsistent form. Nevertheless, Neymar remains Brazil’s top scorer with 79 goals in 128 appearances, and this tournament will mark his fourth World Cup appearance.
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