The Brazil star named Spain as his preferred final opponent ahead of Argentina and Portugal as he eyes a return to action at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Brazilian superstar Neymar has stirred conversation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after revealing he would prefer to face Spain in the final, snubbing traditional rivals Argentina and Portugal led by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

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Neymar made the remark during a discussion on Puma Football’s social media platform, where he was asked which team he would like to meet in the tournament final. The Brazil forward responded simply: “Spain. Brazil-Spain.”

The 32-year-old forward, currently representing Santos at club level, has only just returned to Brazil’s national squad after a lengthy injury setback that kept him out of international football for more than two years following an anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered in October 2023.

Despite being named in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad, Neymar has yet to feature in the tournament so far.

He missed the opening two group-stage matches due to another fitness concern but has since returned to training and could be available for Brazil’s final group game against Scotland on June 24.

Brazil have one remaining group fixture against Scotland after recording a win and a draw in their opening matches, leaving them in a strong position to progress to the knockout stages.

The Selecao forward’s comments quickly gained attention because of the omission of Argentina and Portugal, two of Brazil’s fiercest footballing rivals on the global stage.

Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, have been one of the standout teams of the tournament.

Messi has been in exceptional form, scoring five goals in two matches and guiding his side into the Round of 32, where they have already secured qualification.

The Argentine captain has also become the tournament’s all-time leading goalscorer with 18 goals, further strengthening his legacy on football’s biggest stage.

Portugal, meanwhile, have had a slower start to their campaign. Cristiano Ronaldo has yet to score in the competition, with the team opening their tournament with a draw as they prepare for a crucial group clash against Uzbekistan on June 23.

Spain also remain among the leading contenders for the title, setting up the possibility of a high-profile knockout run that could eventually align with Neymar’s preferred final scenario.

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As Brazil continue their campaign, attention now turns to Neymar’s fitness and whether he will make his first appearance of the tournament in the coming days.