Brazil cruise past Scotland to reach World Cup knockout stage as Neymar returns from injury

Brazil secured a convincing 3–0 victory over Scotland in the FIFA World Cup 2026, booking their place in the Round of 32 while marking the long-awaited return of star forward Neymar following injury.

Playing at Hard Rock Stadium, Brazil took control of the match from the outset and opened the scoring in the seventh minute through a superb finish from Vinícius Júnior.

The Brazilian winger appeared to have doubled the lead in the 22nd minute, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review for offside.

Undeterred, Vinícius continued to threaten Scotland's defence and found the net again in first-half stoppage time, giving Brazil a commanding 2–0 advantage at the interval.

Brazil maintained their dominance after the break and extended their lead in the 60th minute when Matheus Cunha scored to make it 3–0. Having impressed in the previous match, Cunha once again delivered an influential performance.

One of the most significant moments of the evening came in the 76th minute when head coach Carlo Ancelotti introduced Neymar as a substitute for Cunha.

The 34-year-old forward had missed Brazil’s opening two World Cup fixtures after suffering a calf injury in May, making this his first appearance of the tournament.

Brazil comfortably saw out the remainder of the match to secure a 3–0 victory and progress to the knockout phase. Vinícius Júnior’s standout display, combined with Neymar’s return to action, provided further encouragement for Brazilian supporters as the tournament moves into its decisive stages.