Neymar available as Brazil face Scotland with knockout spot in reach

Robertson: Scotland should be excited, not scared

Andy Robertson did not talk like an underdog. The Scotland captain reeled off Neymar, Vinicius Junior, Endrick, and Martinelli by name before the Group C finale Wednesday. "It's something to be excited about, not to fear," he said (6). He also made a point of praising the players Brazil left at home. Respect, but zero trembling.

Neymar is available

Carlo Ancelotti said it straight: "Neymar está disponible" (2). The calf issue is behind him. Whether he starts is another question. Raphinha remains out, and Rayan is the likely replacement in the XI, with Neymar on the bench (3)(4). Martinelli had flagged Neymar's training level earlier this week, and now the squad gets him back for the game that matters.

Rayan likely starts, Neymar waits

French outlet RMC Sport projects Rayan in the lineup and Neymar among the substitutes against Scotland (3). Ancelotti has kept his cards close, testing both Luiz Henrique and Rayan as Raphinha's fill-in. The decision shapes your attack for a match where a draw is enough.

Brazil 3–0 Haiti, and you are basically through

Matheus Cunha and Vinicius Junior delivered in the second group match. Brazil 3–0 Haiti, four points on the board (1)(6). One point against Scotland seals it. The Gato Mestre projections give Brazil a 100% chance of advancing, though the title odds sit at just 3.6% (1). Spain top the simulations.

Ancelotti's balancing act continues

Brazilian media have not held back. The complaint: this team has lost its historic attacking identity, especially next to Messi's Argentina (5). Ancelotti has the squad taking full-team photos before matches as a unity gesture. The Scotland game tests whether the pragmatism unlocks the flair, or just contains it.

Fan-reaktioner

The Neymar return has the fanbase split between hope and caution. Plenty want him starting, others argue the Rayan option keeps the team more balanced. One thread buzzing on r/soccer: "Neymar edges towards Brazil return as Scotland showdown looms"