Brazil has recalled forward Neymar for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina, marking his return to the national team after more than a year, the Brazilian Football Confederation announced on Thursday.
The 33-year-old suffered a knee injury in Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023 and has since struggled to regain his form. After an underwhelming stint with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, Neymar rejoined his boyhood club Santos in January, where he has impressed with three goals and three assists in seven matches. His performances have earned him a recall from Brazil coach Dorival Junior.
Asked about Neymar’s potential game time in the qualifiers, Dorival said: “It’s something we’ll assess. He has already played 90 minutes in two matches for Santos. In some, he was subbed off in the final moments. His performances will determine how we use him.”
Neymar, who holds Brazil’s all-time scoring record with 79 goals in 128 appearances, surpassed Pele’s tally of 77 goals. He previously helped Brazil win Olympic gold in Rio 2016 and played a key role in their runner-up finish to Argentina at the 2021 Copa America.
Currently fifth in the CONMEBOL standings with 18 points from 12 games, Brazil will host Colombia on March 21 before visiting Argentina five days later. This highly anticipated clash could see Neymar face his former Barcelona and PSG teammate Lionel Messi.
With the top six teams qualifying directly for the World Cup, Dorival remains optimistic: “We’re preparing to face strong opponents. These will be two great matches, but we have the quality to achieve positive results. We’re close to a breakthrough, and we just need to be patient.”
