Vinícius Júnior scored and earned his third man of the match award as Brazil defeated Scotland 3-0 in Miami, keeping their World Cup qualification hopes alive. The Real Madrid star opened the scoring in the seventh minute after Rayan pounced on a mistake by Scott McKenna. He then had a second goal ruled out by VAR before halftime for a marginal offside, but later set up Matheus Cunha for the third goal.
Brazil's star power on display
The atmosphere inside Miami Stadium was akin to a home game for Brazil, with three of the four stands filled with yellow shirts. Brazilian celebrities, including Ronaldinho, were in attendance. Vinícius, who came into the match with two goals and two man of the match awards, dominated from the start. According to Paul MacInnes at Miami Stadium, "Vinícius responded like a mastiff let off the leash. He went left, he went right."
Cunha and Guimarães shine
Matheus Cunha, starting as the No. 9, scored Brazil's second goal with a clinical sidefoot effort that bent around two defenders and beat Angus Gunn. He celebrated with a surfing move. Bruno Guimarães provided assists for both the second and third goals, showcasing his playmaking ability from midfield. "The Newcastle captain's bewitching cross for the second goal was followed by an assist for the third that was just as silky," noted MacInnes.
Neymar returns but Scotland struggle
Neymar made his first appearance of the World Cup, coming off the bench for the final 14 minutes. He had little impact, but his every touch was greeted with cheers. Scotland, meanwhile, failed to capitalize on early pressure and struggled to contain Brazil's attack. Key players like Scott McTominay, John McGinn, and Andy Robertson were unable to influence the game. The result leaves Scotland's World Cup hopes hanging by a thread.
