Brazil have received a major boost ahead of their final Group C match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirming that Neymar will be available for selection against Scotland.
The Brazilian captain has missed the Seleção’s opening two matches of the tournament against Morocco and Haiti as he continued his recovery from a calf injury.
However, Ancelotti says the 34-year-old is now on track to return in time for Wednesday’s crucial encounter.
The news comes as Brazil seek to secure their place in the knockout stages after collecting four points from their first two matches.
Speaking after Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti, Ancelotti outlined the recovery plan that will see Neymar gradually reintegrated into the squad.
“Neymar will train individually tomorrow. Then, on Monday, he’ll rejoin the group and will be ready to play against Scotland,” stated the Brazilian coach.
The announcement ends uncertainty surrounding Neymar’s availability during the group stage and offers a timely lift for the South American giants as they prepare for a potentially decisive match.
Brazil currently sit top of Group C on goal difference after their victory over Haiti.
Morocco, who defeated Scotland 1-0 earlier in the day, are level on points with the Seleção, while Scotland remain on three points and still have hopes of advancing to the knockout rounds.
Neymar’s return adds another layer of intrigue to the upcoming clash.
Scotland’s meeting with Brazil could have significant implications for Morocco’s hopes of finishing top of the group, with the Atlas Lions also in contention for qualification.
Neymar has not featured competitively since appearing for Santos in Brazil’s top flight on 17 May.
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward has been recovering from a calf strain and was not risked in Brazil’s opening fixtures.
Despite his injury setbacks, Neymar remains one of the most influential players in the Brazilian squad.
During Brazil’s qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup, injuries limited his involvement, but he still made a significant contribution whenever available.
In four appearances, he scored two goals and provided three assists, underlining the quality he can bring to the team.
His expected return comes at a crucial stage of the tournament.
While Brazil impressed in their victory over Haiti, the team had previously come under scrutiny following a 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening match.
The Seleção responded strongly against Haiti, but Neymar’s creativity and experience could provide an additional edge as they seek to build momentum heading into the knockout rounds.
As the tournament enters its decisive group-stage phase, Neymar’s return promises to be one of the major storylines.
Whether he starts or comes off the bench, his presence gives Brazil another weapon as they pursue a sixth World Cup title and prepare for a pivotal encounter against Scotland.
