Brazil's World Cup campaign continues to be overshadowed by uncertainty surrounding the fitness of star forward Neymar, who underwent further tests on his injured right leg on Monday. The 34-year-old had been expected to rejoin training but instead attended a clinic for examinations on his right calf.
Neymar, who has been sidelined since sustaining an injury with Santos on 17 May, has not taken part in any full training sessions since the five-time world champions commenced their World Cup preparations in Morristown, New Jersey, ahead of their match against Haiti on Friday in Philadelphia.
The urgency for Neymar's return has intensified following Brazil's lacklustre 1-1 draw against Morocco in their World Cup opener on Saturday, with the Selecao's attacking struggles amplifying calls for a seasoned playmaker of his calibre.
Despite his inability to play, Neymar still brought a degree of star power to MetLife Stadium, where he was seen on the sidelines before kick-off, saluting celebrities including rapper Travis Scott and seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady.
His inclusion in the squad by new coach Carlo Ancelotti had already sparked considerable debate across Brazil, with some believing the veteran could still offer vital experience and others contending Neymar is past his peak and may have taken a spot from a younger, emerging talent.