Neymar‍‍`s comeback: Brazil‍‍`s star forward returns for World Cup qualifiers against Argentina

Brazilian football fans will be excited to see the return of Neymar to the national team after a long injury layoff. 

The 31-year-old forward has been included in Brazil’s preliminary squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina. 

This will mark his first return to the national team in almost 17 months.

Neymar’s journey back to fitness has been challenging. 

On October 18, 2023, during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay, Neymar suffered a torn ACL in his left knee, which kept him off the field for a significant period.

After a lengthy recovery, he made his comeback with Al Hilal in October last year, but his return was short-lived. 

After just 42 minutes of action across two matches, Neymar picked up another injury, and his time with the Saudi club came to an end.

However, Neymar hasn’t given up and recently returned to his childhood club, Santos, where he’s been gradually finding his rhythm again. 

While his start was slow, the Brazilian forward has been impressive in recent matches, contributing both with goals and assists, showing signs that he is returning to his best form.

With his improved performances at Santos, Neymar has now earned a spot back in the Brazil squad. 

The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) included him in a 52-player preliminary squad for the qualifiers, which includes a much-anticipated match against Argentina. 

Neymar’s inclusion in the squad is seen as a big boost for Brazil, as they seek to bounce back from their 1-0 loss to Argentina in the World Cup qualifiers last November, a match that took place at Brazil‍‍`s iconic Maracanã Stadium.

The upcoming qualifier against Argentina, scheduled for March 26 at Argentina‍‍`s Estadio Monumental, will be a crucial match for Brazil as they aim to avenge that previous defeat. 

Before that, Brazil will play Colombia at home on March 21. 

Currently, Argentina leads the qualification standings with 25 points after 12 rounds, while Brazil is in fifth place with 18 points, and Colombia is in fourth with 19 points.

The next two matches will be a major test for Brazil, but Neymar’s return could be exactly what they need. 

The preliminary squad also includes talented young players like Endrick and Antony. 

There are also names like Oscar and Lucas Moura, who are looking to make a comeback, alongside stars like Vinícius, Rodrigo, Bruno Guimarães, and Raphinha. 

Brazil’s coach, Diniz Junior, will finalize the squad by announcing the 23 players for the qualifiers in the coming week.

Brazil’s upcoming qualifiers are shaping up to be an exciting time for football fans, and Neymar’s return to the national team adds extra anticipation to the matches.