Remember what Neymar's fracture was like in the 2014 World Cup and his recovery
With just a few days to go before the 2026 World Cup, Neymar is preparing for his fourth World Cup call-up. Of all his participations, the 2014 World Cup was marked by one of the most difficult moments of his career.
The striker suffered a serious fracture caused by a knee from Colombian Camilo Zúñiga, during the quarter-finals of the World Cup, 41 minutes into the second half. Neymar needed 45 days of recovery before he could return to the field.
At the time, the game took place at Arena Castelão, in Fortaleza. In a dispute for the ball, the former Colombian national team defender kneed Neymar in the back, who immediately fell, feeling severe pain. The match was interrupted and the Brazilian had to leave the field on a stretcher, after 41 minutes, very emotional.
After medical evaluation, tests revealed a fracture in the transverse process of the third lumbar vertebra, known as L3. In simple terms, the injury affected a lateral structure of the vertebra, responsible for the connection with muscles and ligaments in the region. Despite the scare, the fracture was considered stable, as it did not affect the spinal cord and did not present a risk of paralysis or permanent sequelae.
Recovery
Neymar spent the first weeks of recovery still in Brazil, requiring the use of a rigid lumbar brace to immobilize the region, in addition to remaining at absolute rest. Afterwards, the attacker returned to Spain to continue treatment at Barcelona's facilities, starting the physiotherapy phase.
After exactly 45 days that combined rest, physical and physiotherapeutic treatment, Neymar returned to the pitch for Barcelona, in a clash against Club León for the Joan Gamper Trophy. On that occasion, the Brazilian had a good performance, adding two goals and an assist, marking his return to football.
Frequently asked questions about Neymar's injury in 2014
- Which vertebra did Neymar fracture?
The third lumbar vertebra (L3), more specifically the transverse process.
- Who injured Neymar in the 2014 World Cup?
Colombian full-back Camilo Zúñiga, during the quarter-finals between Brazil and Colombia.
- Did Neymar need to undergo surgery?
No. The treatment was conservative, with rest, physiotherapy and use of a lumbar brace.
- How long was Neymar out of action?
The striker was away for 45 days and returned to the pitch in August 2014 with Barcelona.
Neymar has a muscle injury and CBF confirms his absence from friendlies; understand
Source: CNN