Brazil legend Neymar made an emotional return to the field for his national side as the Selecao secured a 3-0 victory over Scotland in their final group stage match at the 2026 World Cup. The win ensures Brazil qualify at the top of Group C, ahead of Morocco.
Neymar, who had been sidelined due to a calf injury, missed Brazil’s initial two matches in the tournament. His inclusion in the squad had been unexpected by some, given his last appearance for Brazil was in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023. The 34-year-old forward recovered sufficiently to be named on the bench for the crucial group stage encounter.
With Brazil comfortably leading 3-0, Neymar was introduced into the game in the 76th minute, replacing Matheus Cunha. This marked his 129th appearance for the national team. Upon entering the pitch at the Miami Stadium, he was visibly moved, wiping away tears during his brief cameo. Following the final whistle, he embraced both his teammates and family members.
Scotland’s preparations and player perspectives
Scotland manager Steve Clarke had previously highlighted the threat posed by Neymar, describing him as an “icon” and one of the “superstars of the modern era.” Clarke acknowledged Brazil’s overall strength, stating that they are a significant threat and are expected to reach at least the semi-finals of the competition. He noted that even if Neymar were to come off the bench, his presence would provide a lift to the team.
Scotland captain Andy Robertson, who has faced Neymar at club level, expressed no preference regarding whether Neymar started the match. Robertson emphasised the depth of talent within the Brazil squad, mentioning players such as Vinícius Júnior, Endrick, and Gabriel Martinelli. He stated that Scotland’s focus was on preparing as effectively as possible against one of the world’s top teams, regardless of the specific lineup chosen by manager Carlo Ancelotti.
Clarke also confirmed that Scotland would be without the injured Aaron Hickey, who had also missed their 1-0 loss to Morocco. Hickey is hoped to be ready for the knockout stages, while all other players were reported to be fit and prepared for the match. Scotland knew that securing a point would almost certainly guarantee their progression to the knockout phase.
Weather concerns and future fixtures
Ahead of the match, there were concerns about potential weather disruptions. A previous game between France and Iraq in Philadelphia had been delayed for over two hours due to a lightning storm. Clarke mentioned that Scotland had a plan in place to handle any thunder and lightning, noting that while they had been fortunate with the weather so far, rain disruptions were a possibility based on the forecast.
Clarke explained the protocol for lightning delays, which requires a 30-minute wait after the last lightning strike, a process that can extend indefinitely. He expressed hope that any potential delay would be brief.
Despite his legendary status, Neymar currently plays for Santos in his home country, a club that narrowly avoided relegation at the end of the last season. While part of Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man squad, he is not anticipated to be a regular starter, given the strong attacking options available to Brazil, including Vini Jr. and Raphinha. However, his performance against Scotland, though limited, was described as fairly bright, providing him with valuable minutes in the World Cup.
With their victory, Brazil will now face the runner-up from Group F, which includes the Netherlands, Japan, and Sweden. This upcoming match is scheduled to take place in Houston on Monday, 29 June.
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Source: theguardian.com
Adam Rutherford is a Senior Football Correspondent at News-UK. He spent his early career filing match reports across the North West. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Manchester Metropolitan University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Manchester, he coaches a youth team and watches grassroots football. “Every transfer window hides a dozen real stories.”
