Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Neymar will sit on the bench but won't feature in Saturday's World Cup opener against Morocco. The 33-year-old forward continues recovery from a right calf muscle injury sustained before the tournament, missing training since reporting for duty on May 27.

Ancelotti praised Neymar's work ethic while expressing hope for his return next week. The coach emphasized Neymar's technical abilities and leadership value for younger teammates. Neymar posted an Instagram message Friday saying he's ready for challenges, then underwent planned physiotherapy Saturday while teammates followed normal match-day routines.

Brazil enters the match at MetLife Stadium with their strongest available lineup: Alisson in goal, a backline of Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães and Alex Sandro, with Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães in midfield alongside Lucas Paquetá, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha and Vinícius Jr.

This marks Neymar's absence as Brazil begins their campaign for a sixth World Cup title. The injury timing raises questions about his tournament participation, though Ancelotti expects him back with the squad soon.