Brazilian football star Neymar has reportedly donated US$2.5 lakh to support emergency rescue and humanitarian relief efforts in earthquake-hit Venezuela, according to Venezuelan media.

The report said the donation will help provide immediate assistance to those affected, including food, drinking water, medical supplies and temporary shelters.

"My heart goes out to the people of Venezuela," Neymar was quoted as saying by media, expressing hope that his contribution would bring strength and relief to affected families.

Rescue operations are continuing as teams race against time to locate survivors, although efforts have been hampered by persistent aftershocks and a shortage of heavy equipment. The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, have been followed by several aftershocks and smaller tremors, complicating relief work.

On the football front, Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti said Neymar has made significant progress in his recovery and is now fit to play for longer periods ahead of Brazil's FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against Japan.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Ancelotti said the 34-year-old forward, who missed Brazil's opening two World Cup matches before making a late substitute appearance in the 3-0 win over Scotland, has shown marked improvement over the past week.

"He could not play more than 15 minutes before, but now he is doing well enough to play longer," Ancelotti said.

Brazil secured top spot in Group C, extending its record of finishing first in its World Cup group for a 12th consecutive tournament. The five-time world champions have topped their group in every World Cup since 1982, maintaining a remarkable 44-year streak.

With inputs from NDTV