Brazil have confirmed Neymar’s unavailability for their World Cup qualifying clash against Argentina on Tuesday.
The Paris Saint-Germain star did not travel to Argentina with the rest of the squad after picking up an injury.
Prior to the highly anticipated clash with Argentina, Neymar played the full 90 minutes as Brazil pipped Colombia 1-0 on Thursday and assisted Lucas Paqueta for the decisive goal.
“Due to a thigh injury Neymar will not play against Argentina, this Tuesday (November 16th), for the WC Qualification.
“Neymar didn’t travel to Argentina with the rest of the Brazilian squad and will return to France this Wednesday,” a statement from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) read
A statement from CBF to GE.com added: “After the activities held on Palmeiras’ Football Academy on this Monday morning, Neymar complained about feeling pain in his left thigh.
“Neymar Jr. revealed insecurities about the situation and as a result of not having enough time to make complementary medical exams, Brazilian technical staff decided to preserve the player, who will not travel with the Brazilian Group to San Juan, where the game against Argentina will take place this Tuesday.”
There were also fears for Argentina that star player Lionel Messi could miss the clash.
Messi missed PSG’s last two games due to knee issues, but was called up regardless.
He came off the bench late on in the clash against Uruguay and Argentina Coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed on Monday that the six-time Ballon d’Or winner would be part of the squad for the Brazil match.