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Brazil vs Panama LIVE: Start time, confirmed lineups and why is Neymar not playing? International friendly before 2026 World Cup

Brazil face Panama in an international friendly before the 2026 World Cup. Follow our live coverage for minute-by-minute updates. Want to know how to watch and when it kicks off? Stay with us for full broadcast details and real-time action.

Raphinha of Brazil and Kadir Barria of Panama.
© Hector Vivas /Getty ImagesRaphinha of Brazil and Kadir Barria of Panama.

Brazil are set to face Panama in an international friendly as part of their preparation for the 2026 World Cup, with the Verdeamarela aiming to fine-tune their system ahead of the tournament and reestablish themselves as one of the dominant forces in world soccer.

Carlo Ancelotti surprised with his squad selection, leaving out several usual starters. However, Neymar Jr was included despite being ruled out of this preparation window due to injury. At the same time, Brazil are expected to rely on an attacking unit featuring Vinicius Jr, Raphinha, Matheus Cunha and Luiz Henrique.

Panama are preparing for their second World Cup appearance in history, making this match an important test to raise their competitive level. Under Thomas Christiansen, they have shown strong form, although the gap in individual quality and squad depth still leans in favor of Brazil.

Panama starting XI

Panama have announced their starting XI for this international friendly against Brazil: Orlando Mosquera; Amir Murillo, Cesar Blackman, Fidel Escobar; Jose Cordoba, Andres Andrade, Carlos Harvey, Yoel Barcenas; Jose Luis Rodriguez, Ismael Diaz, Cecilio Waterman.

Brazil confirmed lineup!

Brazil have announced their starting XI for this international friendly against Panama as they continue their preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Starting XI: Alisson Becker; Wesley, Bremer, Leo Pereira, Alex Sandro; Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes, Matheus Cunha; Luiz Henrique, Vinicius Jr, Raphinha.

Why is Neymar not playing?

Neymar suffered a grade two strain in his right calf during practice and is expected to miss two to three weeks, ruling him out of this match against Panama as well as the upcoming friendly against Egypt.

The last time Neymar suited up for Brazil was on October 17, 2023, against Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier, where he suffered a severe knee injury during that match.

Head to head: Brazil vs Panama recent meetings

  • International friendly 23/03/2019: Brazil 1-1 Panama
  • International friendly 29/05/2016: Panama 0-2 Brazil
  • International friendly 03/06/2014: Brazil 4-0 Panama

Start time

Brazil vs Panama will get underway at 5:30 PM ET (PT: 2:30 PM)

Brazil and Panama clash in 2026 international friendly

Welcome to our live blog of the international friendly match!

Brazil and Panama clash in this international friendly as part of their preparation for the 2026 World Cup. Brazil continue fine tuning their squad ahead of the tournament, while Panama look to test themselves against elite opposition under Thomas Christiansen.

Stay with us for live coverage, key moments, and minute-by-minute updates from this international friendly clash.