Neymar ruled out of Brazil's World Cup match against Haiti

New Jersey: Brazil will face Haiti in their second group-stage match of the FIFA World Cup, but star forward Neymar will not be part of the squad. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has confirmed that Neymar has stayed back in New Jersey to continue his rehabilitation from a calf injury.

The decision reflects Brazil's cautious approach toward their key player. Neymar is in the final stages of recovery and is utilizing the advanced facilities at the Columbia Park Training Center in New Jersey. Despite progress in his rehabilitation, he is not yet ready for competitive action.

Neymar sustained the injury on May 17 while playing for Santos against Coritiba. This setback is part of a series of physical challenges that have limited his playing time in recent years. The injury also ruled him out of Brazil's warm-up matches against Panama and Egypt, as well as their opening World Cup game against Morocco, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

While Neymar recently resumed training in the United States, he has mostly been restricted to indoor rehabilitation sessions with physiotherapists and fitness coaches. Brazil's medical staff is aiming for his return during the knockout stages, avoiding any risks during the group phase. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti had earlier hinted that Neymar might not be available for the entire group stage.

Brazil will look to bounce back from their draw against Morocco when they face Haiti in their Group C encounter. Their next match after Haiti is scheduled against Scotland on June 24.