Neymar confirmed available for Brazil vs Scotland at FIFA World Cup 2026 as coach Ancelotti gives fitness green light amid Raphinha injury scare.
Brazil received a major boost ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C clash against Scotland, with head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirming that star forward Neymar will be available for selection.
The 34-year-old had been sidelined with a right calf injury sustained on May 17 while playing for Santos, keeping him out of Brazil's opening two group stage matches. Despite being included in the squad, Neymar had not participated in any full team training session since arriving at the tournament.
Ancelotti provided an encouraging update after Brazil's commanding 3-0 victory over Haiti — a result that all but confirmed their place in the knockout rounds. "Neymar will train alone tomorrow and with the team on Monday. He will be available for the match against Scotland," the Italian manager stated.
The timing of Neymar's return could not be more critical. Brazil's winger Raphinha was forced off in the first half of the Haiti match with a suspected hamstring injury. The Barcelona forward is set to undergo further medical assessment, and Ancelotti admitted the severity of the injury remains unclear. "We need to examine him. We still don't know how serious it is," he said.
Matheus Cunha was the standout performer in the Haiti win, netting a brace to power Brazil to victory alongside a third goal from Vinicius Junior.
With Raphinha potentially facing time on the sidelines, Neymar's return adds crucial attacking depth to the Brazilian squad. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward is expected to play a central role as Brazil push deeper into the tournament.
Brazil face Scotland in their final Group C fixture, looking to secure top spot and build momentum heading into the knockout stage.