Neymar called up by Brazil after 17-month absence

Dorival Júnior has announced the 23-player roster for Brazil’s upcoming World Cup Qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.

The standout news is the return of Neymar, following his stellar performances with Santos in recent weeks. The Brazilian star appears to have returned to peak form, and is ready to don the Canarinha colors once again in two crucial matches for qualification to next summer’s showpiece.

Neymar 14 caps away from equaling Cafu

Neymar, who has 128 caps with Brazil, made his last appearance for the national team in the 2-0 defeat to Uruguay on Montevideo on 17 October 2023. He fell injured during stoppage-time in the first half, and left the field on a stretcher and in tears, to be replaced by Richarlison.

A year and five months on from that game, Neymar will once again don the number 10 jersey and likely the captain’s armband. Both the player and the Canarinha need each other—Neymar to solidify his return to the elite, and Brazil to climb the rankings, where they currently sit fifth on 18 points - one point and one place behind Colombia and seven points behind Argentina, who top the qualifying table.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) released the roster from its headquarters in Rio de Janeiro, with all eyes on Neymar’s inclusion after being named among the preliminary 52 players.

No place for Antony or Endrick

Also called up are Real Madrid stars Vinicius and Rodrygo, along with Barcelona’s Raphinha. Antony’s absence was surprising, given his impressive form since joining Betis during the winter transfer window. Endrick, despite his strong performances for Real Madrid, was also left out.

Brazil will host Colombia at Mané Garrincha Stadium in Brasília on March 20 at 9:45 p.m. local time (7:45 p.m. EST). They will then face Argentina in Buenos Aires on March 25 at 9:00 p.m. local time (7:00 p.m. EST).

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