Neymar's Absence Continues
Brazil will be without talisman Neymar for their second 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage match against Haiti, manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed.
The 34-year-old forward missed Brazil's opening 1-1 draw with Morocco after suffering an injury during national team training. Despite recently returning to light work with the squad, Neymar has not been deemed fit for selection and will remain at the team's base camp in New Jersey to continue his rehabilitation.
Match Details and Stakes
The Group C encounter is set to kick off at 1:30 a. m. BST on Saturday, June 20 (8:30 p. m. local time on Friday). With only one point from their first match, Brazil urgently need a victory to avoid any pressure in the final round of group fixtures.
Haiti, playing in only their second World Cup, lost 2-0 to Portugal in their opener and will be equally desperate for points. The match will be played at a yet-to-be-confirmed venue, though sources indicate it could be in the Miami area.
Ancelotti's Tactical Puzzle
Ancelotti, who took over Brazil after a storied club career, must now decide how to replace his most creative force. In the Morocco draw, Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo started in attack, but the team lacked a cutting edge. Options for Haiti include dropping Rodrygo deeper or handing a start to young sensation Endrick.
"Losing Neymar is always a blow, but we have quality and depth to handle it," Ancelotti said in a pre-match press conference. "He remains an important part of our group, even off the pitch."
Key Takeaways
- Neymar has not traveled with the squad and will miss consecutive World Cup matches for the first time since 2014.
- Brazil must beat Haiti to stay on course for the knockout rounds after a disappointing draw against Morocco.
- Ancelotti faces a selection dilemma, with Endrick pushing for a start in Neymar's absence.
- The match is scheduled for 1:30 a. m. BST on Saturday, June 20, with the venue likely to be in Miami.
Quick Facts
Fixture: Brazil vs. Haiti - 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C
Date / Time: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 1:30 a. m. BST (Friday, 8:30 p. m. local)
Venue: To be confirmed (expected in Miami area)
How to Watch: Broadcaster details are not yet confirmed for all territories.
Key Absence: Neymar (injury)
