Neymar Jr made his long-awaited return to the Brazilian national team on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, coming on as a substitute in the 76th minute during a World Cup qualifier against Ecuador at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Brazil won the match 3-0.
The 34-year-old forward, who had been sidelined due to injury since October 2023, received a thunderous ovation from the crowd as he entered the pitch. This appearance marked his first for the Selecao in over two years and his fourth World Cup qualifying campaign.
Neymar's return is seen as a major boost for Brazil as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The match was part of the CONMEBOL qualifiers for the tournament.
