Ancelotti explains Neymar snub as Brazil beats Japan to reach World Cup last 32
Brazil edged Japan 2-1 to secure a place in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup, with substitute Gabriel Martinelli scoring the winner in stoppage time. Despite Neymar warming up to a loud cheer from the crowd, head coach Carlo Ancelotti kept the Santos star on the bench, explaining that they were waiting for extra time and did not want to alter the team's shape after equalising. Ancelotti said he had told Neymar he would likely come on in the 60th or 65th minute, but the equaliser changed the plan.
For Nigerian fans, the match highlights the high level of competition at the tournament, especially after the Super Eagles failed to qualify. Seeing how top teams manage star players offers insight into tactical decisions that could affect future matches involving African sides. It also shows that even global superstars may see limited minutes depending on game flow.
What should you take from this? Consider how tactical patience can trump star power, and think about whether Nigeria’s future squads might benefit from similar game‑management approaches when facing elite opposition.