Emotional Neymar opens up as he explains why he made the Brazil World Cup team
Brazilian star Neymar made a heartwarming return to the international stage in Brazil’s World Cup game against Scotland, even breaking down in tears after showing why he deserved a spot on the team despite some doubts.
It had been 980 days since Neymar last played for Brazil, with his previous game ending sadly after he got a serious knee injury in 2023. Since then, he’s been working hard to get back in shape, though a calf injury kept him out of Santos’ last four games this season. In fact, he’s only played 15 games since his knee surgery earlier this year, and at times, he had a tense moment with fans after a heated interview.
That’s why many were surprised when Brazil’s new coach, Carlo Ancelotti, picked him for the World Cup squad. It was even more unexpected because Neymar wasn’t going to be ready for any warm-up matches or the early games in the tournament. Still, when the squad was announced, Neymar was openly emotional, especially since some players like Chelsea’s Joao Pedro didn’t make the cut.
Finally, Neymar stepped onto the field for about 20 minutes against Scotland. The crowd gave him a huge cheer that even outshined the goals scored. In his time on the pitch, he showed a mix of everything that makes him special—the good, the tricky, and even some rough moments. While he lost the ball nine times, he also created three scoring chances for teammates, more only matched by starters Lucas Paqueta and Rayan.
Coach Ancelotti praised Neymar after the match, saying, “He earned his chance because he worked hard. He showed great professionalism in training to get fit, and with his skills, he can really help the team in this World Cup. He played well in the time he had.”
Even football legend Thierry Henry was impressed, saying on Fox, “The game changed as soon as Neymar came on. The very best players don’t need a full game to make an impact. In just 20 minutes, he created three chances, showing his great vision and how quickly he can break down a defense. Every time he touched the ball, Scotland had to respond. He made Brazil’s attack much more dangerous.”
Henry added, “What really matters is influence—can a player change the flow of the game and make the opponents uncomfortable? Neymar did that tonight. With all the talent Brazil has, Neymar still brings something special. Sometimes a short appearance is enough to remind us why he’s been such a key player for this generation.”
Brazil finished their group as the first team with three wins and will face the runner-up of Group F, likely the winner of Japan vs Sweden on June 25.