Brazil will miss star forward Neymar for Friday’s World Cup group match against Haiti in Philadelphia. The Brazilian FA said the 34‑year‑old remains in New Jersey to finish rehab at The Ridge hotel and Columbia Park training centre. He trained separately on Wednesday but is limited to indoor work as doctors guard his recovery. His presence would have offered a creative edge Brazil now lacks.

Neymar suffered a right‑calf injury during Santos’ 3‑0 loss to Coritiba last month, adding to a string of setbacks that have kept him out of the national team for nearly three years. Brazil sit on a solitary point after a 0‑0 draw with Morocco, while Haiti languishes at the bottom following a defeat to Scotland. The absence leaves Brazil’s attack thin against a disciplined Haitian side.

With Neymar sidelined, coach Dorival Jr. will likely rely on Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo to provide the missing spark. Haiti’s defensive discipline and early goal threat could force Brazil to chase the game, a risky approach in a tournament where goal difference matters. Brazil must secure a win on Sunday to stay alive in Group C.