NEW JERSEY: As the five-time world champions Brazil prepare to lock horns with Erling Haaland’s dangerous Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 today, all eyes are pinned on Brazilian icon Neymar Jr. The ultimate question echoing through the football world is: Will Neymar start and score against the Vikings?
Neymar’s World Cup campaign has been severely restricted by a right calf injury. He has recorded just 15 minutes of tournament action so far, coming off the bench late against Scotland in the group stages, and remaining an unused substitute in Brazil’s dramatic 2-1 win over Japan. However, head coach Carlo Ancelotti has delivered the update everyone was waiting for, confirming that the 34-year-old superstar is ready for a full match.
”The important thing is that he is available to play. When I feel the team needs him, I will put him on the pitch. Yes, he can play 90 minutes,” Ancelotti stated ahead of Sunday’s blockbuster clash.
Furthermore, Ancelotti ignited excitement by promising that Neymar and Vinícius Júnior “will play together” during the knockout phases. While several Brazilian media outlets predict that Neymar will break into the starting lineup tonight, his pinpoint accuracy and legendary positioning make him a massive goal-scoring threat against Norway, whether from kickoff or as a crucial second-half weapon. Brazil has historically struggled to convincingly beat Norway in past World Cup history, making Neymar’s potential goal-scoring brilliance even more critical tonight at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Match Schedule & Broadcast Information
MatchVenueUser Local Kickoff Time (IST)Live Streaming / TV
Brazil vs NorwayNew York New Jersey Stadium, USAJuly 6, 2026, at 1:30 AM ISTFOX, FOX One
