Brazil’s World Cup camp has received a boost as Neymar could return earlier than expected from a calf injury. Initially, the plan was for the forward to play in the second group match against Haiti, but Brazilian outlet Globo reported that his rehabilitation is progressing faster than anticipated. Following a new medical assessment, Brazil’s medical staff no longer rule out his participation in the first match against Morocco on June 13.

Neymar, who suffered a grade-2 calf injury before the tournament, missed all of Brazil’s warm-up matches and stayed in New Jersey for a special recovery program while the team played Egypt in Cleveland. The Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed that his recovery has been positive. Coach Carlo Ancelotti and the medical team are now optimistic that Neymar could feature, at least partially, in the opening match.

A final decision on Neymar’s inclusion will depend on last-minute medical evaluations. Brazil’s Group C opponents are Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland, and fans’ hopes have risen again as the 34-year-old forward nears full fitness.