Neymar stays at heart of Brazil's World Cup push despite injury setback

Brazil striker Neymar watched the team's first match from the bench while dealing with an injury, and his form over the past season has fallen short of his usual standards. Even so, few question his ability on the pitch or his enduring appeal to supporters. At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 34-year-old still ranks among the sport's most prominent names.

Neymar holds Brazil's scoring record with 79 goals from 128 international caps. He plays club football for Santos and is set to appear at a fifth FIFA World Cup. In 13 previous tournament games, he has scored eight times and continues to rank among the most threatening forwards in the global game.

The forward is also on course for a historic first: he will become the only player to wear Brazil's famed number 10 shirt at four separate World Cups. Drawing on his experience, leadership and finishing, Neymar is again expected to carry heavy responsibility as Brazil pursue another World Cup title.