Neymar Set to Miss Brazil’s Egypt Warm-Up as Calf Recovery Continues

By Zibuyile Dladla Jun 5, 2026, 04:08 PM Updated - Jun 5, 2026, 04:08 PM

Sports

Author Zibuyile Dladla Reading 1 min Published by 05.06.2026

Neymar will miss Brazil’s World Cup warm-up in Cleveland against Egypt after the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed the forward will continue intensive treatment for a calf problem ahead of the tournament.

The CBF said Neymar will not make the trip with the team for the match tomorrow. Instead, he will stay in New Jersey, where he will undergo physiotherapy and step up his rehabilitation plan.

Brazil’s all-time leading scorer is currently sidelined by a Grade 2 calf strain, described as a moderate injury that involves a partial tear.

Despite the setback, Brazil’s coaching staff remain optimistic about the 34-year-old’s prospects, believing he could be ready in time for the team’s World Cup opener against Morocco on June 13.

Brazil, who have won the World Cup five times, are drawn in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti and Scotland.

Zibuyile began her media journey as a sales intern at Mediamark (Kagiso Media) before moving into digital content creation for ZAlebs.com. Over four years, she helped evolve the platform from a simple blog into one of South Africa’s leading independent entertainment news sites.
Following ZAlebs’ transition to Celebrity Worx in 2016, Zibuyile was promoted to Executive Editor, recognized for her sharp audience insight and ability to match editorial with branded content. Highlights of her time include a Bookmark Award nomination, judging TLC’s Next Great Presenter, reporting from the MTV EMAs, and building partnerships with radio stations like YFM, Cliff Central, and Good Hope FM.
Her editorial work also expanded to include fast-growing digital verticals—such as lifestyle tech, online entertainment, and gambling-related content—tailored to evolving reader interests and brand opportunities.