WORLD CUP 2022
Why is Neymar not playing against Switzerland in the 2022 World Cup?
Brazil took to the field on Monday looking to confirm their place in the round of 16, but one samba superstar was missing.
Although it took the 2022 World Cup favourites a while to get into gear, the opening game victory was assured, and with some class in the end. But it wasn’t all good news, as two of their stars were injured in the match, meaning they’d be missing.
Where’s Neymar for Brazil?
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed on Friday that two members of Tite’s World Cup squad, Neymar and Danilo, would be sidelined for both the team’s next two group games - against Switzerland on Monday and Cameroon on 2 December. CBF medical staff confirmed that both players had suffered ligament injuries.
Neymar and Danilo picked up injuries in the 2-0 win over Serbia and both players underwent tests in Doha this morning before the Brazil squad were due to train at Grand Hamad Stadium. Neymar was substituted on 79 minutes, with confirmation afterwards that he had suffered an injury to his right ankle. Danilo meanwhile was able to complete the full 90 minutes.
Neymar’s injury is a recurrence of an old injury which has kept him sidelined for long spells at various points of his career so it remains to be seen whether Tite will risk him later in the tournament, depending on how far the team goes. Tite has several options for the right flank - Neymar’s place in the side could go to Antony, Gabriel Jesús or Rodrygo.
As for Danilo, Éder Militao or Dani Alves are experienced alternatives at right-back