Neymar plays today? Scotland vs Brazil at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Neymar is back. The 34-year-old striker, who missed Brazil in the first two rounds of the 2026 World Cup due to a calf muscle injury, is expected to debut this Wednesday (24) against Scotland, at the Hard Rock Stadium, in Miami. The game, valid for the last round of Group C, is decisive for the leadership of the group.
With four points added, a draw with Morocco and a victory over Haiti — the Brazilian team enters the field needing a good result to guarantee first place and avoid more difficult crosses in the knockout stages. Neymar’s presence should give more quality and unpredictability to the attack led by Carlo Ancelotti.
The number 10 trained normally in the last few days and received approval from the technical committee. Ancelotti praised the player’s physical condition and indicated that he is capable of playing the full 90 minutes, helping both in creation and finishing alongside Vinícius Júnior and Matheus Cunha.
Neymar’s return defines Brazilian plan against Scotland
Ancelotti’s strategy for the clash should revolve around Neymar’s experience. The midfield with Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães and Paquetá will provide support for the attack to explore the spaces left by the Scottish defense, known for being compact, but vulnerable in quick transitions.
The likely Brazilian lineup includes Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães and Douglas Santos; Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães and Lucas Paquetá; Rayan, Vinícius Júnior and Matheus Cunha, with Neymar as an option to enter from the beginning or during the match. Scotland, with three points, comes from a victory over Haiti and a defeat against Morocco. Steve Clarke should bet on a low block and counterattacks with McGinn, McTominay and Adams.
Impact of the game on Brazil’s campaign
In addition to sealing their place in first place (depending on the goal difference against Morocco), the duel serves as an important test for the team before the round of 16. Neymar arrives motivated after his recovery and hungry for a leading role in his possible last World Cup. The Brazilian fans, present in large numbers in Miami, hope that the star will make a difference.
The Hard Rock Stadium, the stage for major events such as Super Bowls and the final of the last Copa América, hosts another chapter of the National Team on American soil.
Where to watch Neymar and Brazil vs Scotland live
The ball rolls at 7pm (Brasília time). The broadcast takes place on TV Globo, SporTV, Premiere, ge, CazéTV, SBT and on platforms such as Disney+.
















