Neymar will start vs. Costa Rica, Brazil coach Tite confirms

Neymar's lingering foot issues won't force him to the bench for Brazil's clash with Costa Rica on Friday.

Brazil coach Tite confirmed Thursday that his starting XI will be unchanged from the team's Group E opener, a 1-1 draw with Switzerland.

Tite also suggested Neymar won't be at full fitness until much deeper in the tournament.

"It's still the same prognosis. He played his first 90 minutes (against Switzerland) in three-and-a-half months," Tite told reporters, according to Tom Marshall of ESPN. "There is a science (behind the recovery) and calmness.

"Five matches is the minimum he needs; he has already sped up the process. It is on track, don't worry."

Neymar was spotted limping out of training Tuesday, but returned the following day after receiving physiotherapy treatment.

His current health issues can be traced back to February, when he broke a bone in his right foot and needed surgery. The injury spelled the end of Neymar's club season with Paris Saint-Germain.