Brazilian football star Neymar is making progress in recovering from a calf strain and may be available for Brazil's opening World Cup match against Morocco, according to coach Carlo Ancelotti. The match is scheduled for June 13 in New Jersey.

Neymar's Recovery Progress

Despite earlier reports suggesting that the 34-year-old forward could be sidelined for three weeks, Ancelotti expressed optimism about Neymar's fitness. He stated, "We believe he'll be back very soon and if he doesn't make it for the opener, he'll be there for the second game." Neymar, who currently plays for Santos after stints with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, will miss Brazil's two pre-World Cup friendlies against Panama and Egypt.

Upcoming Matches and Squad Selection

Brazil is set to face Panama on Sunday at the Maracana stadium before heading to New Jersey for their final warm-up match against Egypt on June 6 in Cleveland. Neymar's selection in Ancelotti's 26-man World Cup squad came as a surprise, given that he had not represented the national team in nearly three years due to injuries and inconsistent form. Nevertheless, Neymar remains Brazil's all-time leading goalscorer, with 79 goals in 128 appearances for the national team, and this World Cup will mark his fourth appearance in the tournament.

With the World Cup fast approaching, the Brazilian team is hopeful for Neymar's swift return to full fitness as they prepare to compete on the global stage.