Neymar withdraws from Brazil squad; Endrick named as replacement for Argentina & Colombia clash

Selecao will be eyeing two big wins over Argentina and Colombia.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in the CONMEBOL region reaching a critical juncture, Brazil’s national team faces two pivotal clashes against Colombia and Argentina. These fixtures are not only crucial for improving their standing in the qualification table but also present an opportunity to close the gap on table-toppers Argentina.

However, Brazil have been dealt a significant setback as several key players will be unavailable for these crucial encounters. Their absence could pose a serious challenge for the Selecao as they aim to navigate these high-stakes matchups and strengthen their position on the road to the World Cup.

Can young Endrick fill Neymar’s void?

Brazil’s national team will be without several key players for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Argentina and Colombia, with Neymar Jr.’s absence being the most significant blow. The star forward, who recently rejoined Santos FC, had been showing glimpses of his prime form, making his exclusion a major setback. Additionally, Manchester City’s goalkeeper Ederson and Flamengo’s Danilo will also miss these crucial fixtures, further weakening Dorival Jr.’s squad.

To compensate for these absences, the Brazil coach has called up Lyon’s Lucas Perri, Flamengo’s Alex Sandro, and Real Madrid’s rising talent Endrick. Their inclusion will be vital as Brazil looks to maintain competitiveness and secure positive results in these high-stakes encounters.

Can the new inclusions rise to the big occasion?

The biggest question remains: how will these new inclusions perform for the Brazilian national football team. Lucas Perri, the 27-year-old goalkeeper currently playing for Lyon, has displayed exceptional aerial prowess with his 6’5” frame and remarkable athleticism, making him a promising addition between the sticks.

Meanwhile, Endrick, the prodigious talent from Taguatinga, has already made over 16 appearances for Real Madrid, showcasing his immense potential at such a young age. Adding to the squad’s experience, veteran full-back Alex Sandro could provide much-needed defensive stability, further strengthening Brazil’s lineup for the crucial fixtures ahead.

Why these games are crucial for Brazil?

Brazil’s national football team have struggled to find its dominant form, failing to reach the Copa América final in 2024 and facing inconsistencies in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Currently sitting in fifth place, their recent performances have been underwhelming, with draws against Uruguay and Venezuela further highlighting their struggles.

With just 18 points from 12 matches, the five-time world champions must secure victories in their next two fixtures to climb into the top two. Their upcoming clashes against Argentina and Colombia will be crucial in determining their path to World Cup qualification.

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