"Dream lives on": Neymar hopeful of making Brazil's World Cup squad after friendlies snub
New Delhi, March 17
Brazilian star footballer Neymar has said he still hopes to earn a place in Brazil's FIFA World Cup 2026 squad, even after being excluded from the national team for friendlies against France and Croatia later in March, according to ESPN.
Brazil's matches against France and Croatia on March 26 in Boston and March 31 in Orlando, respectively, will be the last encounters before Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti names his final World Cup squad on May 18.
During a live broadcast of a Kings League Brazil game, Neymar, speaking of his exclusion from the squads for Brazil's friendlies, said he is disappointed not to be selected but remains focused and determined. He emphasised continuing to work hard and believes he can still make the final World Cup squad, insisting the "dream lives on."
"I'm going to speak out here, because I can't just let this pass. Obviously I'm upset and sad not to have been selected. But the focus remains the same, day after day, training session after training session, match after match. We'll achieve our goal. There's still one final squad announcement to go and the dream lives on. That's it, we're in this together," said Neymar as quoted by ESPN.
Notably, Brazil's all-time top scorer with 79 goals, Neymar, has not featured for the national team since October 2023, when he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee.
Carlo Ancelotti said Neymar was left out because he is not fully fit. He added that if Neymar regains full fitness, continues playing well, and maintains good condition, he still has a chance to make the World Cup squad.
"Neymar is not at 100 percent and therefore he is not on the list. Neymar is not at 100 percent of his capability. If he can be at 100 percent physically, he can be there. Neymar could be at the World Cup. Neymar has to keep working, playing, showcasing his qualities and maintaining good physical condition," he said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Ancelotti is right to be cautious. You can't select a player based on past reputation, especially after a major knee injury. The team's performance comes first. Neymar needs to prove his fitness and form, no shortcuts.
His passion is clear from his statement. "Dream lives on" – that's the spirit! Reminds me of our own cricket legends fighting back from injuries. Wishing him a speedy and complete recovery. The World Cup would be poorer without Neymar.
Respectfully, maybe it's time to look to the future? Brazil has so many young talents. Neymar will always be a legend, but clinging to him might hold back the next generation. It's a tough call for any coach.
The man is Brazil's all-time top scorer! You don't just discard that kind of experience and talent. If he's even 90% fit, his presence and skill can change a game. Hope Ancelotti gives him a fair chance in May.
It's all about the next two months. He needs to play regularly for his club and stay injury-free. No more drama, just focus on fitness. The ball is in his court now. Best of luck to him! 🤞
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