Neymar trains with the ball but remains a doubt for Haiti

Neymar trains with the ball but remains a doubt for Haiti

Neymar was on the pitch with the ball Wednesday, training with the squad ahead of Brazil's second Group C match (1). The mood was light, teammates even gave him a baptism moment during the session (1). But do not expect him against Haiti on Friday. The medical staff are being cautious, and the real target is keeping him fit for the knockout rounds (1). Your team should have enough without him for this one.

Brazil face Haiti on Friday with Group C control at stake

Haiti have never earned a World Cup point. That is the opponent Brazil get on Friday in the second group match (2). Ancelotti's side lead Group C after the opener against Morocco and can take full control here. The fixture lands on 20 June (2). With Neymar likely watching, the spotlight shifts to the rest of the attack to deliver.

Parreira hospitalised in Rio

Carlos Alberto Parreira, the man who led Brazil to the 1994 World Cup title, has been admitted to Hospital Samaritano Barra in Rio de Janeiro (3). The hospital confirmed the admission Wednesday but declined to share details, citing patient privacy laws (3). Parreira is 83. Few figures loom larger in Brazilian football history.

Scotland sweating the heat before facing Brazil

Scotland are preparing for extreme conditions in the World Cup group stage, with their matches against Morocco and Brazil set to be played in serious heat (4). It is a factor for your team too, Ancelotti's squad will face the same conditions when that fixture arrives. The Scots are studying hydration protocols and training schedules to cope (4).