FIFA World Cup 2022: Brazil give update on Neymar injury, is his tournament over?

Brazil started off with a victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup as they beat Serbia 2-0 on Friday. They had to dwell in the first hour of the match but eventually, the Selecao were bright and beautiful at the Lusail Iconic Stadium as Richarlison scored a brace to secure the three points.

But amid the victory, there is concern among supporters worldwide regarding Neymar and his fitness. The star forward had an underwhelming game, having just 3 shots and only one of them was on target. In a match where Neymar scored a blank, trouble arose later when he hobbled off with an ankle injury and had to be substituted.

At the touchline, the 30-year-old was captured wrapping his head with the shirt in dismay and that feared millions. He also had an ice pack wrapped around his ankle, with a visible swollen area around the ankle. And these images have raised questions about whether his tournament has come to a premature end.

And now it has been confirmed that Neymar has been ruled out of Brazil's remaining group-stage matches.

Brazil manager Tite confirmed that Neymar's injury was not serious but it seems the star forward will have to sit out the next two matches at least.

"You can be sure that Neymar will play in the World Cup, I am absolutely sure of that. He's going to play in the World Cup" Tite told the curious reporters after his team's triumph.

But Brazil's team doctor later said they will have to wait for further review if required. He also confirmed the talismanic forward sprained his ankle and had swelling, which was treated with ice and physiotherapy.

"There is no scheduled imaging exam. If there is a need, we will. But that will be decided by the measure of his evaluation tomorrow. The expectation is observation. Anything we talk about evolution, his sequel, is premature. We do not have any answers, it is important to wait," added Dr. Rodrigo Lasmar.

The latest update as per multiple reports state that Neymar is unlikely to feature for the remainder of the group stage of the World Cup, but could still play a part in the tournament. This means the star forward will miss Brazil's clash against Switzerland and Cameroon.

Brazil are in cruise control of their group for now and a win over Switzerland in the next match will almost ensure their passage to the knockouts.