Neymar returns as Brazil beats Scotland 3-0 in World Cup

Brazil’s national team secured a 3‑0 victory over Scotland in their World Cup group match, with striker Vinícius Júnior scoring twice and Bruno Guimarães adding a third. The win marked the return of 34‑year‑old forward Neymar, who appeared for the first time in three years, playing about 20 minutes and receiving an enthusiastic reception from the Brazilian supporters.

Neymar, whose 2025 contract is with Saudi club Al‑Hilal, previously set a football transfer record with a €222 million move from Barcelona to Paris Saint‑Germain in 2017. The recent appearance underscores his continued importance to the Seleção despite a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered in 2023.

Coach Roberto Ancelotti noted that the team showed greater rhythm and intensity, and highlighted Neymar’s dedication in training, suggesting the veteran could be a valuable influence as Brazil advances to the knockout stage, where they may face the Netherlands, Japan or Sweden.