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Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated
Sport
Amanda Langell

Why Neymar Isn’t Playing for Brazil vs. Morocco—2026 World Cup Opener

When Brazil face off with Morocco in its 2026 World Cup opener on Saturday, the Seleção will be without all-time leading goalscorer Neymar.

Carlo Ancelotti’s men are in for a major test at MetLife Stadium to kick off their pursuit of a record-extending sixth World Cup title for Brazil. The South American powerhouses will lock horns with Achraf Hakimi and Co., who only just—controversially—won the Africa Cup of Nations in January.

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