Neymar remains the biggest question mark ahead of the World Cup Round of 16 match between Brazil and Norway. Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the veteran is fit and capable of playing 90 minutes, but did not say whether he would start. Despite his limited minutes, Neymar continues to play an important leadership role in the team as Brazil prepare to face Erling Haaland and Norway. Another important topic of conversation, in addition to the war with Erling Haaland, was the match between Brazil and Norway in the 1/8 finals. Fans are waiting to see if Neymar will play a bigger role in the tournament after his highly anticipated debut in the group stage. According to head coach Carlo Ancelotti, the veteran striker is ready to play, but he is keeping quiet about it, leaving fans guessing ahead of kick-off.
Will Neymar play with Norway against Brazil today? Carlo Ancelotti keeps fans guessing
Neymar’s return to the World Cup was carefully orchestrated after recovering from injury. The 34-year-old made his first appearance at the tournament during Brazil’s final group stage match against Scotland, coming on in the 76th minute. Since then, speculation has continued as to whether he will be given a larger role in the play-off rounds.Ahead of Sunday’s match, Ancelotti offered encouraging words but refused to confirm his squad. “Neymar and Vinicius Jr can play together… and they will play together.”The Brazil national team coach also stressed that the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star is physically ready.“The important thing is that he can play. When I feel that the team needs him, I will bring him onto the field. Yes, he is ready to play 90 minutes.”Despite this, Ancelotti has not confirmed whether Neymar will start. Similar comments were made earlier in the tournament before the striker was left on the bench for matches against Morocco and Japan.However, reports in Brazilian media suggest that Neymar could be in contention for a place in the starting line-up. The Brazilian Football Confederation also fueled anticipation by posting a photo of the veteran with the caption: “Tick tock… The 1/8 finals of the 2026 World Cup are close.”
Neymar’s leadership remains vital despite limited minutes at the World Cup.
Ancelotti admitted it was not easy for one of Brazil’s greatest players to sit on the bench.“He is unhappy with the situation, but he behaves very well. He trains very well.”The Italian coach praised Neymar’s influence off the pitch.“He is respectful, kind and loved by his teammates. He is an important figure because of his qualities and because he is a humble man. I’m very pleased with him.”He also admitted that the striker naturally wants to take the field more often.“Of course he wants to play, as always. He doesn’t come to me asking for minutes, but that’s very clear. That’s a positive thing. No player should be happy sitting on the bench.”Before naming his World Cup squad, Ancelotti privately clarified Neymar’s role. According to the coach, the veteran took on all the responsibility that was required of the team.“No problem. I’ll be another member of the group and help.”Ancelotti replied:“Will you help me? Helping also means staying on the bench.”Despite his limited playing time, Neymar remains an influential player in the Brazil camp. His experience, leadership and relationships with young players including Vinicius Junior and Endrick continue to make him one of the most respected figures in the team.As Brazil prepares to face Haaland’s unbeaten Norwegian side, fans will once again be waiting to see what role Neymar will ultimately play. Whether from the first whistle or later in the match, his presence remains one of the most important storylines ahead of this World Cup knockout match.