Neymar could make his return for Brazil from the bench as they face Scotland in a crunch World Cup 2026 clash today. Brazil's all-time leading scorer has recovered from a calf injury that sidelined him for the first two matches of the tournament.
Team News and Injuries
Barcelona star Raphinha picked up a hamstring injury against Haiti and will miss this game, forcing manager Carlo Ancelotti to rejig his attack. Ancelotti confirmed Neymar “will be available” as a substitute. Brazil's attack in a 4-2-3-1 formation includes Bournemouth's Rayan, who comes in alongside Lucas Paqueta and Vinicius Junior. Vinicius has scored in both games so far and starts on the left wing.
Brazil's Starting Lineup and Key Players
Bruno Guimaraes and Casemiro form the midfield pivot. Danilo retains his place at right-back after replacing Roger Ibanez against Haiti. Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhaes continue as the centre-back pairing, with Douglas Santos at left-back. Liverpool's Alisson starts in goal, keeping out former Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson.
Brazil XI: Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Douglas Santos; Guimaraes, Casemiro, Paqueta; Rayan, Cunha, Vinicius Jr.
Subs: Weverton, Ederson, Sandro, Bremer, Pereira, Ibanez, Ederson, Fabinho, Santos, Neymar, Endrick, Henrique, Martinelli, Thiago.
Injured: Raphinha.
Match Context and Impact
Brazil opened Group C with a 1-1 draw against Morocco, where the Atlas Lions thoroughly outplayed them. They then beat minnows Haiti 3-0 without ever looking truly convincing. A win against Scotland would seal top spot in the group. Scotland will be looking to cause an upset and boost their own qualification hopes.
The match takes place at Miami Stadium, with kick-off at 11pm BST on Wednesday June 24, 2026, and will be broadcast on BBC One.
