2026 FIFA World Cup Ancelotti Explains Why He Benched Neymar In Brazil Vs Japan Clash

2026 FIFA World Cup Ancelotti Explains Why He Benched Neymar in Brazil vs Japan Clash Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has explained his decision to leave superstar forward Neymar Jr on the bench during Brazil’s tense 2-1 victory over Japan in their Round of 32 World Cup clash. Brazil secured a dramatic late win against Japan national football team to advance to the Round of 16, but Neymar did not feature at any point in the match despite being fit enough to be in the squad. Speaking after the match, Ancelotti said the decision was mainly tactical, explaining that Brazil’s structure and balance improved during the second half and he did not want to disrupt it by making unnecessary changes. He revealed that Neymar was being prepared as a potential option for extra time if the match had remained level. The Italian coach added that Neymar had been considered for introduction around the 60th or 65th minute if Brazil were still chasing the game, but the team’s comeback changed the plan. Brazil equalised through Casemiro before securing a stoppage time winner via Gabriel Martinelli, removing the need for further attacking changes. Ancelotti also suggested that Neymar’s recent recovery from a calf injury played a role in the cautious approach, with the coaching staff prioritising his full fitness for later stages of the tournament rather than risking a relapse in a high-intensity knockout match. The decision sparked debate among fans, with many expecting Neymar to feature in a crucial knockout fixture, but Brazil’s late comeback ultimately validated the coach’s conservative strategy. Brazil now progress to the Round of 16 as one of the tournament favourites, while questions continue over Neymar’s role in the remaining stages of the competition.