Neymar ready to play full 90 minutes: Ancelotti

Ahead of Brazil's last-16 World Cup clash against Norway, coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that star forward Neymar Jr is fully fit and ready to play the full 90 minutes.

In an interview with Brazil's influential media outlet Folha de S.Paulo, Ancelotti praised Neymar's physical and mental condition. When asked about the superstar's fitness, Ancelotti made it clear: "Yes, he is ready to play the full 90 minutes."

Ancelotti said Neymar is eager to play the full match, and his dedication and commitment to the team throughout his recovery have been remarkable. The Italian coach praised Neymar's professionalism, adding, "He is not entirely happy about not being able to play the full time, but his behaviour has been absolutely perfect. His football skills on the pitch are great, and off the pitch he is equally humble. He is very popular with everyone in the squad and is a huge asset for us."

Ancelotti also revealed why he was not seen celebrating exuberantly after Gabriel Martinelli's winning goal against Japan. "The game is not over for me until the final whistle. Even after Martinelli scored, there were still minutes left. I have had many experiences in my career where I thought we had won but lost at the last moment. So I remain calm until the victory is confirmed," he said.

Ancelotti sees the Norway match as a tough test, praising the Norwegian team and warning his players about star striker Erling Haaland. "Norway is a well-organised team with several world-class players. Haaland is one of the best in the world. There is no doubt this will be a difficult match. But we are confident that if we play our best football, we will come out on top," he said.

Brazil and Norway will face off in this crucial last-16 clash at 2:00 am Bangladesh time on Sunday, July 5.