Ancelotti Explains Why Neymar Didn't Play Against Japan
Brazil's Carlo Ancelotti benched Neymar during a 2-1 World Cup knockout win over Japan, keeping the star forward available for potential extra time while the team controlled the match.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti explained why he kept star forward Neymar on the bench during their 2-1 victory over Japan in the 2026 World Cup Round of 32 knockout stage. Though Neymar was seen warming up repeatedly on the sideline throughout the match, he never took to the field.
After the game, Ancelotti addressed the decision, saying: "We were holding Neymar for extra time. I told him he might get on around the 60th or 65th minute, but we scored an equalizing goal and I didn't want to change our structure because the team was controlling the match."
He added: "We have multiple options both on the bench and on the field. Japan is not an easy team—they're well-organized and very intense. The truth is we deserved to win, and that's what matters most."
