Rio de Janeiro, Jun 06 (V7N) – Five-time world champions Brazil will take on Egypt in their final preparatory match ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the highly anticipated encounter scheduled to kick off at 4:00 am Bangladesh time on Sunday.
However, Brazil will be without star forward Neymar, who continues to recover from an injury sustained during a match against Coritiba on May 17.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Neymar injured the calf muscle in his right leg and will not be risked in the friendly against Egypt.
Despite Neymar's absence, there is optimism within the Brazilian camp as the remainder of the squad is reportedly fully fit. Ancelotti indicated that he plans to rotate his squad extensively and provide playing opportunities to 22 footballers during the match.
Speaking about Neymar's recovery, Ancelotti said the forward is progressing well and will undergo an MRI scan at the end of the week.
“I think his situation is very clear now. He is doing great on his own. He will have an MRI scan at the end of the week. Then, if everything is fine, he will be able to train with the team next week,” the Brazilian coach said.
Brazil will face an Egyptian side led by star forward Mohamed Salah, making the match one of the most anticipated warm-up fixtures before the World Cup.
History favors the Seleção, who have won all six previous meetings between the two nations. The last encounter between Brazil and Egypt took place in 2011, with Brazil emerging victorious.
The match will provide Ancelotti with a final opportunity to assess his squad before the start of the World Cup as Brazil seek a record-extending sixth world title.
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