Brazil visits Ecuador in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers as Carlo Ancelotti makes his debut, but fans are left asking: Why isn’t Neymar Jr playing today?
Brazil visits Ecuador in a crucial 2026 World Cup Qualifier at the Estadio Monumental in Guayaquil, looking to secure a much-needed win and rediscover the spirit of Joga Bonito. The match marks the highly anticipated debut of head coach Carlo Ancelotti, whose presence is expected to bring renewed structure and confidence to a team still searching for its identity. However, the biggest headline ahead of kickoff is the absence of Brazil’s biggest star — Neymar Jr.
Ecuador enters the match in a strong position, sitting comfortably nine points ahead of Bolivia and eight above Venezuela with just four matches remaining in the CONMEBOL campaign. Their most recent result, a 0-0 draw with Chile in Santiago, showcased their defensive discipline. More importantly, this current Ecuadorian squad is being hailed as one of the most talented generations in the country’s history.
Brazil, on the other hand, comes off a statement 4-1 win over archrivals Argentina — one of the most dominant victories in the history of their storied rivalry. Prior to that, they edged Colombia 2-1 in a tightly contested match. Despite those positive results, questions continue to swirl around the team’s lack of cohesion and the absence of its once-celebrated attacking flair. Many fans and pundits alike still long for the golden days of Brazil’s past.
This match is likely to be decided by fine margins. Ecuador boasts the best defensive record in South American qualifying but has struggled to produce goals consistently. Brazil, loaded with individual talent across the pitch, will need to rely on chemistry and execution to break down a disciplined Ecuadorian side managed by Sebastián Beccacece.
Why isn’t Neymar playing?
During Ancelotti’s first squad announcement, the Italian manager addressed Neymar’s absence — a hot topic among fans. He explained that several key players were left out of the squad due to recent injuries or ongoing recovery processes. Along with Neymar, the likes of Endrick, Rodrygo, Gabriel Jesus, Joelinton, and Éder Militão were also omitted from the call-up.
“I tried to select players who are fully fit, and Neymar has only recently recovered from an injury,” Ancelotti told reporters. “Everyone knows how important he is and always will be. Right now, we have a lot of players recovering, and unfortunately, they can’t be part of the team.”
Ancelotti also revealed that he spoke directly with Neymar. “Brazil counts on him. He returned home to prepare himself for the World Cup. I talked to him this morning and explained the situation, and he fully understood.”
Neymar recently rejoined Santos FC, but his comeback has been disrupted by further physical setbacks after recovering from a serious knee injury that sidelined him for over a year during his time at Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
From: bolavip.com