Neymar is out for rest of group stage
BRazIL refuse to rule neymar out of the World Cup but he is not expected to play again until the knock-outs after twisting his right ankle in the win against serbia.
Real Madrid striker Rodrygo is most likely to replace him against switzerland on Monday, and tite will not risk his playmaker in the third group game against Cameroon if he thinks Brazil can progress without him. Right back Danilo, who also suffered an ankle injury against serbia, will not play any part in the remaining group games either, and his absence could mean a World Cup return for Dani alves at the age of 39. It will come down to former Barcelona full back alves, now playing in Mexico, or Real’s Eder Militao. neymar tried to continue against the serbs but he was replaced by antony in the 80th minute and was in tears as he received treatment by the pitch.
It is the third World Cup in succession when he has been beset by an injury.
In 2014, he hurt his back in a quarter-final. In 2018, he arrived at the World Cup after three months out with a broken foot. this time, however, Brazil have more creative support. tottenham forward Richarlison was the hero of the victory on thursday, scoring twice in a 2-0 win. the second was a spectacular volley.
‘he’s an amazing player and really important for us,’ said Liverpool goalkeeper alisson. ‘attacking and defending he puts so much in on the pitch for the good of the team. I’m really happy and proud for him scoring two and one of them was such a fantastic goal, it was amazing.’ Manchester united winger antony added: ‘he’s a great guy and he deserves it. that’s Richarlison, you give him a chance and he scores. You should see him in training. he shoots from anywhere and everywhere, all sorts of angles. he’s an incredible player.’
Rodrigo Lasmar, the Brazil doctor, said: ‘neymar and Danilo started treatment after our game. the exams showed a lateral ligament injury on neymar’s right ankle and a medial ligament injury to Danilo’s left ankle.’