Former captain Neymar has been recalled by Brazil after an absence of almost 1 1/2 years. The 33-year-old striker was included in the national squad by coach Dorival Junior on Thursday for World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina this month.

With upcoming games against Colombia and Lionel Messi's Argentina on the horizon, Brazil coach Dorival Junior has made a significant decision regarding Neymar's return to the national team.

Neymar's justification for missing a semifinal with Santos was criticized because he was seen at Carnival last week.

Neymar did not feature for Santos in Sunday's 2-1 semifinal defeat at Corinthians because of ongoing "discomfort" in his left thigh.