The Moroccan fullback suffered the injury in the back of his right thigh in the final minutes, 88’, of the first leg, in which PSG defeated Bayern Munich 5-4 on Tuesday in Paris. His team had already used all substitutions, and Hakimi finished the match despite the injury.

Hakimi collapsed on the pitch after contesting a ball with Konrad Laimer in the closing moments of the game and immediately grabbed the back of his right leg, eventually leaving the field in pain, but returning due to the lack of substitutions.

Is his presence at the World Cup in doubt?

He is already ruled out for the second leg, and from there, only 38 days remain until Morocco’s debut in the World Cup against Brazil in Group C, where Haiti and Scotland are also present.

All indications suggest that Hakimi will arrive at the World Cup without major issues, but with the concern of losing rhythm, the rest presents a good option considering that this World Cup is longer.

What is next for Hakimi?

If PSG advance past Bayern, they will face Arsenal or Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League final on May 30. He is expected to be available for that match.

Hakimi, who finished sixth in last year’s Ballon d’Or voting, is expected to be a key piece for Morocco in this summer’s World Cup. Morocco, who reached the semifinals of the 2022 World Cup, will play their first match on June 13 against Brazil.

“Eder Militao will have to undergo surgery for his new injury in the hamstrings of his left leg,” journalist Miguel Angel Diaz of COPE reported. “The Brazilian reopened the scar from the initial injury that occurred in December against Celta. Unfortunately, he will miss the World Cup,” he added.

Eder Militao raised concerns in Real Madrid and in Brazil last Tuesday, in the match against Deportivo Alaves. The 28-year-old center back was substituted before halftime with visible signs of pain in the same area that, as Diaz reported, had already been injured some time ago.

The original injury of Eder Militao

To understand what happened with Eder Militao, we have to go back to early December 2025. On December 7, to be precise, Real Madrid faced Celta de Vigo on Matchday 15 of LALIGA. In that match, Militao felt discomfort and was substituted in the 25th minute of the first half.

Hours later, Real Madrid reported a “tear in the biceps femoris of the left leg with involvement of the proximal tendon,” a diagnosis that projected a recovery time of no less than four months. Militao took the necessary time before returning, but he suffered another injury in that same area and will no longer be able to avoid surgery.

Ancelotti keeps losing players

Eder Militao is the most recent absence in a concerning list and reality for Brazil. Rodrygo and Willian Estevao, two players who also had their spots secured among the 26, suffered injuries that will keep them out of the World Cup.

On May 11, Ancelotti will have to present a preliminary list of 55 players, where it is almost certain that we will not see the defender, while May 30 will be the day when the 26 names going to the World Cup are officially announced.

“I hope he goes because I think he can be very helpful,” Ronaldinho said about Ney in a recent interview with Globo Esporte. “Personally, I’m his friend, and I think he is one of the greatest talents in world soccer.” Neymar continues fighting for a position, giving everything with Santos.

The former Barcelona and AC Milan star, who retired in 2015, made it clear that he trusted Carlo Ancelotti’s judgment when it came to selecting Brazil roster, “It is the coach’s decision, and we have to respect it. We do not know what the coach is thinking. He has his own plans.”

How Ronaldinho sees Brazil

Brazil’s performance is a complete unknown due to their recent performances, whether in qualifiers or recent friendly matches, especially because of an empty attack that moves away from their Joga Bonito identity, where Neymar would definitely be the perfect complement.

Then, the Champions League and Libertadores winner spoke about his country, “I see Brazil very well. They have great players, and we wish them a good preparation so they arrive in top form. As a fan, their number one supporter, I will be there cheering them on.” Ronaldinho played in two World Cups, 2002 and 2006, and also won the 1999 Copa America and the 2005 Confederations Cup.

The weight of a legend opinion

Ronaldinho’s opinion carries weight given his legacy as a player. The attacking midfielder was one of the biggest stars in world soccer in the early 2000s and left his mark both at the club level with Barcelona and internationally with Brazil.

With Brazil, he achieved major success, winning the 1999 Copa America, the 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan, and the 2005 Confederations Cup. He also earned a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Carlo Ancelotti’s men started the match in fine form, dominating possession throughout the first half, though they initially struggled to break through the wall of goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic. However, just before the break, Danilo managed to penetrate the defense to send Brazil into halftime with the lead.

In the second half, the pace of the match slowed significantly as Brazil ceded more of the ball to Croatia. The Croatians eventually found an equalizer through Lovro Majer with only five minutes remaining, a goal that seemed destined to seal a draw in Orlando.

But the drama wasn’t over. Just a minute later, the referee awarded a penalty for a foul on Endrick, which Igor Thiago converted to restore the lead. With the advantage back in their favor, Gabriel Martinelli added one more in the dying moments to secure the final 3–1 result.

[Watch Brazil vs Croatia online in the US on Fubo]

One of the standout matchups of the FIFA international window features Brazil and Croatia in a clash that could foreshadow a future World Cup showdown. Brazil is looking to respond after a loss to Kylian Mbappe’s France.

With Vinicius Jr. leading a talented group eager to rebound against top European opposition. Meanwhile, Croatia—fresh off impressive runs at Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022—continues its build toward Luka Modric’s, aiming to finish with anew victory after defeat Colombia 2-1.

When will the Brazil vs Croatia match be played?

Brazil play against Croatia in a 2026 friendly game this Tuesday, March 31, with the match kicking off at 8:00 PM (ET). Follow Brazil vs Croatia live with us!

Brazil vs Croatia: Time by State in the USA

ET: 8:00 PM
CT: 7:00 PM
MT: 6:00 PM
PT: 5:00 PM

How to watch Brazil vs Croatia in the USA

This Friendly clash between Brazil and Croatia will be available for viewers in the USA on Fubo. Other options: DirecTV Stream and ESPN Deportes.

The most important could be related to Rio de Janeiro and the matchup the Dallas Cowboys will play at Maracana Stadium since, unlike what happened in 2024 and 2025, it could not be held in Week 1.

Last year, the Kansas City Chiefs faced the Chargers on September 5, while two seasons ago, the Eagles played against the Packers on September 6. Now, there could be a plot twist.

Brazil 2026 international game might suffer important change

The game in Brazil that the Cowboys will play in 2026 cannot be scheduled for Week 1 due to legal issues, according to a report from Adam Schefter during a special appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.

“I don’t think they’re allowed to do Fridays. The Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961 prohibits NFL games on the second Friday in September to the second Saturday in December. Labor Day is Monday, September 7. So, the NFL cannot violate the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961 and schedule a game Friday night this year.”

The big difference is that, in 2024 and 2025, the games the NFL scheduled in Brazil were in the first week of September. Now, the calendar arrangement made the NFL kickoff scheduled for the second week of September. Because of this, there cannot be a game on Friday and the league had to move to a Wednesday–Thursday tandem.

When is 2026 NFL kickoff?

The 2026 NFL kickoff is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, when the Seattle Seahawks will host an opponent to be determined. The tradition of having the opening game at the home stadium of the defending Super Bowl champions remains in place.

Then, on Thursday the 10th, the Los Angeles Rams and the San Francisco 49ers will face off in Melbourne in the first regular-season game in Australia. This indicates that the league has decided to use the Wednesday and Thursday slots since the NFL legally cannot do so on Friday.

Brazil looked off their game once again. With Neymar Jr. out of the lineup to face France, the “Verde-Amarela” struggled and registered yet another loss. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is approaching, and Carlo Ancelotti can’t figure out his side, still. Brazil’s next test will be against Croatia at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

France didn’t look at their best, either. But when you have Kylian Mbappe on the team, anything can happen. That was the case as the French ace opened the scoring and helped his team prevail in New England. France will face Colombia in their next game on March 29th at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland.

The forward’s absence is not a last-minute decision. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti did not include him in the squad for the March international friendlies, including matches against France and Croatia.

The decision is largely tied to his physical condition, as he is still working his way back to full fitness after recent injuries and ongoing muscle issues. While he has returned to club action, Brazil’s staff have opted for caution.

Is Neymar injured or resting?

Neymar has been dealing with lingering physical issues since suffering a serious knee injury in 2023, and although he has returned to club action, he has not yet reached full match fitness.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti made it clear that only players at 100% condition were selected for the March international friendlies. His absence is therefore precautionary rather than tactical.

He has also struggled with muscle fatigue in recent weeks, which limited his rhythm and prevented the coaching staff from fully evaluating him ahead of the squad announcement.

For Brazil, the decision reflects a long-term approach. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the priority is ensuring that the forward can return at full strength rather than risking setbacks in a friendly against France.

How did Neymar get injured?

Neymar suffered a serious knee injury after rupturing his ACL during a match in 2023. The Brazilian star was injured while playing in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, when he landed awkwardly following a challenge and immediately showed signs of discomfort.

Medical tests later confirmed a torn anterior cruciate ligament, along with damage to his meniscus, an injury that typically requires surgery and a lengthy recovery period.

This setback sidelined him for several months and forced him into an extensive rehabilitation process. Even after returning to action, players recovering from ACL injuries often need additional time to regain full match fitness and confidence.

The details of Neymar’s meticulous roadmap were revealed by journalist Murilo Tauro for the respected Brazilian outlet Globo. The strategy is designed to protect his surgically repaired knee and includes personalized training sessions, a strict limit on match appearances, and the avoidance of long-distance travel.

Ancelotti has until May 18, 2026, to submit his final 26-man roster for the 2026 World Cup. Neymar’s primary goal is to prove he can still provide elite value to the Seleção and secure his place in what would be his final World Cup appearance as a player.

Neymar’s strategic plan for the 2026 World Cup

Neymar is reportedly following a specialized schedule designed to manage his physical workload and maintain peak fitness. Between now and the May 18 roster announcement, Santos have 14 matches scheduled; Neymar intends to feature in exactly half of them (7 matches) to ensure he has sufficient match rhythm without overtaxing his body.

To protect his surgically repaired knee, the veteran forward will strictly avoid playing on artificial turf, such as the surface at Palmeiras’ Allianz Parque. Additionally, he will skip long-distance international travel, specifically opting out of Copa Sudamericana away fixtures in Argentina, Ecuador, and Paraguay.

Perhaps most notably, the report indicates that if Neymar is included in the final 26-man squad on May 18, he will immediately cease playing for Santos for the remainder of the club season.

Ancelotti’s stance on the Neymar situation

In a press conference ahead of the friendlies against France and Croatia, Ancelotti was once again questioned regarding Neymar’s continued absence from the squad and his prospects for the final 2026 World Cup roster.

The Italian manager remained characteristically composed and cautious, offering a measured response to the mounting pressure from fans and media. “I observe and listen to everything,” Ancelotti stated. “Everyone is entitled to their opinion on soccer because soccer isn’t an exact science. There are many things people can have an opinion on—whether the team is playing well, or if a specific player is performing or not. All those opinions must be respected”.

When did Neymar last play for Brazil?

It has now been nearly two and a half years since Neymar last stepped onto the pitch for Brazil. His last appearance for the Seleção came on October 17, 2023, during a CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier against Uruguay—a night that ended in heartbreak for the superstar as he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee.

The last time Neymar Jr was called up by Brazil was just over a year ago, on March 6, 2025. On that occasion, then head coach Dorival Junior included him in the squad for the South American qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina. His return generated major expectations, marking his official comeback after nearly 18 months out due to a serious knee injury.

Despite being called up in March 2025, Neymar did not log any minutes in those matches. After the loss against Argentina in Buenos Aires, a result that led to Dorival’s departure, the player returned to his club to continue his physical recovery. Since then, under Ancelotti, Neymar has not appeared in any official squad list.

When was the last time he played a match?

Meanwhile, the last time Neymar played an official match for Brazil was on October 17, 2023, against Uruguay at Estadio Centenario in World Cup qualifying.

That night proved devastating for the Brazilian star, as before halftime, he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus in his left knee following an unfortunate collision. Brazil lost that match 2-0.

What did Neymar say about not being included?

Following the announcement, Neymar attended a Kings League match for his team Furia against DesimpedN in São Paulo, and while in the president’s box, he grabbed a microphone to address his exclusion directly: “I’m going to speak out here because I can’t just let this slide. Obviously, I’m upset and sad that I wasn’t called up.“

Despite the disappointment, Neymar made clear his determination to keep pushing for a place at his fourth World Cup. “But the focus remains, day after day, training after training, game after game. The focus remains. We’re going to achieve our goal. There is still the final squad selection to come,” said Neymar.

“One of the worst days of my life, how much I always feared this injury… maybe life has been a little cruel to me lately… I don’t know if I deserve this, but what can I complain about? How many wonderful things I’ve already experienced, which I also didn’t deserve. A great obstacle has arisen in my life, in my career, and it prevents me from doing what I love most for a while,” Rodrygo stated on his Instagram account.

Rodrygo expressed gratitude for the overwhelming messages of support he received following news of his injury. “Thank you, everyone, for the prayers, messages, and affection! Your support means the world to me,” he shared in a statement on social media.

This setback follows a challenging match in which Real Madrid suffered a 1-0 defeat to Getafe in LaLiga at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Rodrygo entered the game in its latter stages and had a couple of clear scoring opportunities, but was thwarted by the goalkeeper and defense.

Rodrygo’s resilience: A promise to return stronger

In addition to discussing his own situation, Rodrygo pledged to his fans and supporters of both Real Madrid and Brazil that he will strive relentlessly to regain his health. His goal is to recover quickly and come back stronger for the upcoming season.

“Even though this is a very challenging moment, I promise not to stop here. I believe I still have many incredible experiences ahead and aim to bring joy to everyone who believes in me. This is just a ‘see you soon,’“ Rodrygo asserted.

Now, Alvaro Arbeloa and Carlo Ancelotti face the challenging task of finding a suitable replacement for the upcoming fixtures. Rodrygo has been an integral part of the tactical setups for both Real Madrid and Brazil.