Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar is fully fit and available for selection in the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash against Norway, raising hopes of a big role for the veteran forward in the knockout stages.The five-time champions booked their place in the last 16 with a dramatic 2-1 win over Japan in the last 16 thanks to Gabriel Martinelli’s stoppage-time winner. However, Neymar did not take part in the contest as he continues his recovery from a right calf injury.
Ancelotti confirms that Neymar can play a full match
Neymar’s World Cup campaign has so far been hampered by fitness concerns. The 34-year-old made just one brief appearance at the tournament, coming off the bench for 14 minutes during Brazil’s group win over Scotland.Speaking to Folha de S.Paulo, as quoted by Goal.com, Ancelotti said the Brazilian star is now ready to contribute whenever needed.“The important thing is that he is available to play. How long he will play, no one knows. He has the experience to manage his minutes and game time. When I feel that the team needs him, I will put him on the field,” said Ancelotti.When asked if Neymar is able to last the whole game, the Brazilian coach gave a direct answer.“Yes. He can play 90 minutes.”
“An important character in the team”
Ancelotti also praised Neymar’s influence in the dressing room, highlighting his quality of football and his leadership around the team.“He is training very well. Neymar is very respected, lovable and loved by his teammates. He is an important character in the team because he has immense quality and is a very humble person. I am very happy with him. Obviously, he wants to play, as always,” he said.The experienced manager added that although Neymar has not openly asked for a place in the starting line-up, his eagerness to return to action is evident.“He doesn’t say directly: ‘I want to play’, but that desire is quite clear. And it’s a positive thing. A player cannot be happy sitting on the bench,” Ancelotti added.
Brazil sees Norway’s first World Cup win
Brazil will face Norway in the round of 16 at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday. The South American giants enter the contest as favorites after getting past Japan in the previous round. Meanwhile, Norway enjoyed a memorable campaign in their first World Cup appearance since 1998. They reached the knockout stage with a 2-1 win over Ivory Coast, with Erling Haaland scoring the decisive goal late on.History, however, offers Norway confidence. Brazil have never beaten the Scandinavian side in four previous meetings, including their famous 2-1 defeat at the 1998 FIFA World Cup.