World Cup favorites Brazil will be without star forward Neymar for its group stage matches against Switzerland and Cameroon after suffering an ankle injury during the team’s 2–0 against Serbia on Thursday. Brazil’s team doctor confirmed the news, per CBS Sports.
Neymar went down in the 79th minute of that opening victory for Brazil, limping off the field with tears welling up in his eyes after what appeared to be a painful ankle injury. His status was unknown at the time, but manager Tite said he was “confident” that his star would be back during the World Cup.
“You can be sure that Neymar will play the World Cup,” he said. “I am absolutely sure about that. He will play in the World Cup.”