Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has explained why Neymar remained an unused substitute during the Seleção’s dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Japan in the World Cup Round of 32.
The forward was seen warming up in the second half in front of the Houston crowd, raising expectations of an imminent introduction as Brazil searched for a breakthrough against a disciplined Japanese side.
However, Ancelotti ultimately chose not to bring him onto the pitch, a decision he clarified after the final whistle.
The manager revealed that the coaching staff was originally preparing to introduce Neymar around the 60th or 65th minute, or potentially hold him back for extra time. However, once Brazil scored the equalizer, Ancelotti decided against changing the team’s tactical structure because the squad had successfully wrestled back control of the game.
He praised the depth of his roster, noting that Brazil has plenty of quality options both on the bench and on the pitch. Acknowledging the difficulty of the match, Ancelotti credited Japan as a highly organized and intense opponent, adding that the hard-fought nature of the victory made earning the spot in the next round even more significant for the South American giants.
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