Santos Boss Insists Neymar Is 'On Track' For World Cup After Win Over Cortiba

Santos head coach Cuca has backed Neymar to secure a place in Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad following his influential display in a 2-0 Copa do Brasil victory over Coritiba. 

The manager believes the veteran forward's evolving playing style and tactical intelligence make him an essential asset for Carlo Ancelotti as the Seleção prepare for the summer tournament.

Neymar demonstrated his enduring quality on Wednesday night, orchestrating a 2-0 win for Santos against Coritiba to progress in the Copa do Brasil. 

The 34-year-old provided an assist for Gabriel Bontempo’s 20th-minute opener before helping his side see out a vital victory. 

Despite not having featured for the Brazil national team since October 2023, this influential performance comes at a critical time, with Ancelotti’s final World Cup squad selection looming just days away following the forward's long road to full fitness.

(Getty Images Sport)

Following the final whistle, Cuca explained how Neymar has adapted his game to remain a threat at the highest level. 

"For the World Cup, I think that with each game that's passed, Neymar is showing his worth, his ability. He's not the Neymar of the past, who would take the ball and drive it inside, but he creates enormous difficulties for the opponent today," he said. "In the national team, he can help in many ways, coming from behind, setting someone up, his intelligence, holding onto the ball, organizing, finishing. He plays on the wing, as a number 10, as a false nine."

The Santos manager remains optimistic about Neymar's international prospects as Brazil prepares to face Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland in World Cup Group G. 

"His spot on the national team is very well on track, I imagine. He can represent us in a really