Neymar to miss group stage with ankle injury

Brazil have suffered a big blow at the 2022 World Cup after talisman Neymar was ruled out until after the group stage in Qatar with a sprained ankle, confirmed the team’s doctor.

Neymar was the most fouled player in the first round of group matches, being chopped down nine times during the 2-0 win over Serbia.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward looked to twist his ankle when he was on the receiving end of a sliding challenge by Serbia defender Nikola Milenkovic in the 80th minute.

The 30-year-old spent a further 11 minutes on the pitch before he was substituted for Manchester United winger Antony.

Team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar said tests conducted on Neymar’s right ankle showed he has a ligament injury.

“It’s important to remain calm, an evaluation will be conducted daily so we can have more information and take the most appropriate decisions,” Lasmar said.

He added that “the goal is to have him recover” to still play in the tournament.