Neymar damaged ligaments in his ankle in Brazil's opening win against Serbia, and his participation in the rest of the tournament was in doubt because of the injury.

He suffered a ruptured ACL and meniscus during a World Cup qualifier game between Brazil and Uruguay. MRI scans confirmed the need for surgery and rehabilitation, with no specified date for the surgery yet. Neymar's absence is a setback for both Al-Hilal and fans eagerly awaiting his return.