Just days after Neymar was picked in Brazil's FIFA World Cup squad, there is some bad news for his fans. It's now official that Neymar's injury, initially believed to be a swelling is a Grade 2 calf injury.
The CBF's team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar confirmed the news. Neymar is now out of action for two to three weeks.
Will Neymar Play in the FIFA World Cup?
The tournament begins in a couple of weeks and Brazil's opening game is vs Morocco on June 13. Neymar is set to miss that match but it is not clear when he will return to participate. The future is uncertain as the 34-year-old's fate hangs in the balance.
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The Bad News Is Official
The MRI has confirmed the worst fears and Neymar is expected to miss Brazil's pre-World Cup friendlies vs Panama on May 31 and Egypt on June 6. The World Cup starts on June 11 and shall end on July 19.
How Many Games for Brazil?
Brazil will be playing at least three games in the group stage. Provided they advance, then comes Round of 32, Round of 16, quarters, semis and final/3rd place playoff. In other words, Brazil will play a maximum of eight matches. It remains to be seen how many, if any, of those outings Neymar takes part in.
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Can Neymar Be Fit in Time?
Neymar right now faces a race against time to be fit for what will most probably be his last World Cup. This is also expected to be the final throw of the dice for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. As many as 48 teams will take part in the event spanning 39 days as 104 matches determine who lifts the title.
Neymar's Dream Farewell
Brazil have won five World Cups but none since 2002. Their 1st title came in 1958. The drought has been long and they will want to end it. If they do and Neymar plays, what a way it would be to call it a day in the game.