Neymar’s Absence Looms Over Mumbai City FC Clash in AFC Champions League

AFC Champions League: Will Neymar miss Mumbai City FC match on 6 Nov after left knee injury?

The Injury

Brazilian footballer Neymar suffered a left knee injury during the 2026 FIFA World Cup South American qualification football match between Uruguay and Brazil on October 17, 2023. The injury occurred in the 44th minute of the match when the 31-year-old attacker tripped and fell while running. Neymar was visibly in pain and was surrounded by players from both teams as he grasped his knee. He was subsequently taken off the field on a stretcher, holding his face with both hands. Richarlison replaced Neymar in the game.

Uncertain Participation in AFC Champions League Match

With Neymar‘s injury, his participation in the upcoming AFC Champions League match against Mumbai City FC is now uncertain. The match is scheduled for November 6, 2023.

Assessment of Injury

After the match, Brazil’s doctor Rodrigo Lasmar spoke to reporters, stating that it was too early to determine the severity of Neymar‘s injury. He mentioned that all the necessary tests had been performed and would be repeated the following day. Lasmar emphasized the importance of these tests in evaluating how Neymar‘s knee would respond and the extent of swelling. The results of the tests will provide a clearer diagnosis and prognosis for Neymar‘s injury.

Context of the Match

The AFC Champions League match in question is between Neymar‘s team, Al Hilal, and Mumbai City FC. Al Hilal is part of Group D, along with FC Nassaji Mazandaran, PFC Navbahor Namangan, and Mumbai City FC, for the AFC Champions League Group Stage matches.

Excitement and Challenges for Mumbai City FC

Mumbai City FC captain Rahul Bheke had expressed his excitement about facing Al Hilal in the AFC Champions League, including the prospect of competing against Neymar. Bheke mentioned that the team’s players were eager to face any of the Saudi teams and that they are looking forward to the challenge posed by Al-Hilal, which recently made significant additions to its squad. The additions include prominent players such as Neymar, Kalidou Koulibaly, Ruben Neves, Aleksander Mitrovic, and Malcom.

Advice for Mumbai City FC

Given Neymar‘s injury and the uncertainty surrounding his availability for the match, Mumbai City FC should prepare for both scenarios. Should Neymar be unable to play, it may provide the team with a tactical advantage; however, it is crucial not to underestimate the other talented players in Al-Hilal’s squad.

Mumbai City FC should focus on their own strengths and game plan, ensuring that they are well-prepared to face a formidable opponent. The team’s players should maintain their determination and confidence, continuing to work hard in their training sessions ahead of the match. With the right strategy and execution, Mumbai City FC can still secure a positive result against Al Hilal, regardless of Neymar‘s presence on the field.

Conclusion

The uncertainty surrounding Neymar‘s participation in the AFC Champions League match between Al Hilal and Mumbai City FC on November 6, 2023, adds an intriguing element to the upcoming clash. While Neymar‘s absence would impact Al Hilal, Mumbai City FC must stay focused and prepare diligently to face a strong opponent. Regardless of Neymar‘s availability, the match promises to be a test of skill and strategy for both teams, highlighting the competitive nature of the AFC Champions League.