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Neymar Jr. took the field for Brazil for the first time since 2023 as the 34-year-old came off the bench in the closing stages of Brazil's 3-0 win over Scotland in the Group C clash of the FIFA World Cup 2026, on Wednesday, June 24 (local time). Neymar marked his return to field after recovering from a calf injury.
Neymar not only marked his first appearance in the ongoing World Cup but also marked his return to action for the first time since October 2023, when he sustained a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. The injury ruled him out for an extended period and limited his involvement in Brazil's qualification campaign. Neymar entered the field in the 76th minute of the match against Scotland as he substituted Matheus Cunha. The forward came on to make his fourth FIFA World Cup appearance, completing a remarkable milestone in his international career. He has now featured in the 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026 editions of the tournament. Earlier in the tournament, while Brazil squad travelled to Philadelphia for their match against Haiti which the five-time champions eventually won 4-0, Neymar remained at Brazil's training base in New Jersey to continue an individual rehabilitation programme. The veteran forward resumed on-field work over the weekend, taking part in physical and ball drills as he stepped up his recovery. Coming to the Brazil vs Scotland match, Brazil defeated Scotland 3-0 in their final Group C match, securing top spot in the group and advancing to the knockout stage alongside Morocco. Vinicius starred with a first-half brace, opening the scoring in the seventh minute and heading in his second just before half-time, before Matheus Cunha added a third goal after the break. The win also saw Brazil dominate proceedings, with Scotland struggling to create clear chances despite a few late efforts. The match also marked a historic milestone for Vinicius, who became the first Brazilian in 24 years to score in each of the nation's first three World Cup matches, equalling the feat of Ronaldo Nazario and Rivaldo from 2002. He also became only the fifth Brazilian overall to achieve the record. Brazil finished the group stage with seven points, while Scotland must now wait to see if their three-point tally is enough to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. (ANI)
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