Brazil's Knockout Stage Debut
Brazil is set to take on Japan in its first knockout stage game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Houston Stadium on Thursday. The big question is whether Neymar will feature in this crucial match after making a brief appearance in Brazil's group stage finale against Scotland.
Neymar's Prospects of Playing
Neymar is available on the bench for Brazil's round of 32 matchup with Japan. So far, he has made only one appearance at the 2026 World Cup, coming off the bench against Scotland and playing 14 minutes.
Neymar's Current Health Status
Neymar initially missed Brazil's first two matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to a calf injury he sustained on May 17 while playing for Santos. The initial timeline for his absence was two to three weeks; he returned on June 24.
The Stakes for Brazil
Brazil is playing for a spot in the round of 16. The team has consistently qualified for the round of 16 in every edition of the tournament since 1966, and has not missed the round of 16 in the modern group-stage era, which started in 1986.
If Brazil secures a win against Japan, it will proceed to face the winner of the Ivory Coast vs. Norway match in the round of 16.
