Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar is fully fit and available for selection in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against Norway, raising hopes of a major 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 Round of 32, thanks to Gabriel Martinelli’s stoppage-time winner. However, Neymar did not take part in the competition as he continues his recovery from a right calf injury.
Ancelotti confirmed that Neymar will be able to play the whole match
Neymar’s World Cup campaign has so far been hampered by health concerns. The 34-year-old made just one brief appearance at the tournament, coming off the bench for 14 minutes during Brazil’s win over Scotland.Speaking to Folha de S.Paulo, as quoted by Goal.com, Ancelotti said the Brazilian star is now ready to contribute if needed.“The important thing is that he is there to play. How long he will play, no one knows. He has the experience to manage his minutes and the tempo of the game. If I feel that the team needs him, I will put him on the pitch,” said Ancelotti.When asked if Neymar will be able to endure the whole game, the Brazilian coach gave a straightforward answer.“Yes. He can play 90 minutes.”
“An important attribute of the squad”
Ancelotti also praised Neymar’s influence inside the dressing room, highlighting the quality of his football and leadership around the team.“He is training hard. Neymar is very respectful, welcoming and loved by his teammates. He is an important character in the squad because he has great quality and is a humble person. I am very happy with him. Clearly, he wants to play, as always,” he said.The experienced manager added that although Neymar has not openly demanded a place in the starting line-up, his eagerness to return to action is palpable.“He doesn’t say directly, ‘I want to play,’ but that desire is very clear. And this is a positive thing. A player is not happy sitting on the bench,” added Ancelotti.
Brazil is eyeing its first ever World Cup victory over Norway
Brazil will face Norway in the Round of 16 at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday. The South American giants enter the competition as favorites after defeating Japan in the previous round. Norway, meanwhile, 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 late goal.History, however, offers confidence to Norway. Brazil have not beaten the Scandinavian side in four previous meetings, including their famous 2-1 loss at the 1998 FIFA World Cup.