FIFA World Cup 2026: Neymar Set for Brazil Return Against Scotland After Injury Recovery, Confirms Carlo Ancelotti

The veteran forward has missed Brazil’s opening two matches after suffering a right calf injury while playing for Santos in May. However, his recovery has progressed well, and he is now expected to return for the decisive encounter.

Carlo Ancelotti Confirms Neymar’s Availability

Speaking after Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti, Ancelotti revealed that Neymar would resume full training with the squad before the Scotland match.

“Neymar will be training tomorrow individually, and on Monday with the rest of the team. He will be available for the match against Scotland,” Ancelotti said.

The Brazilian star has been following an individual rehabilitation program and recently underwent medical assessments to monitor the recovery of his calf injury.

Neymar Yet to Feature at FIFA World Cup 2026

The 34-year-old has not played a single minute in Brazil’s World Cup campaign so far. He missed the opening 1-1 draw against Morocco and remained unavailable for the team’s convincing 3-0 win over Haiti.

Although Neymar was named on the bench against Morocco, the coaching staff decided not to risk him as he continued recovering from a grade-two calf strain.

Raphinha Injury Increases Neymar’s Importance

Neymar’s return comes at a crucial time for Brazil after winger Raphinha suffered an apparent hamstring injury during the victory over Haiti.

The Barcelona star was forced off in the first half and will undergo further medical tests to determine the severity of the problem.

“We need to evaluate him. We don’t know the severity yet,” Ancelotti explained after the match.

With uncertainty surrounding Raphinha’s fitness, Neymar’s experience and attacking quality could prove vital for Brazil’s qualification hopes.

Brazil Build Momentum Ahead of Scotland Clash

After a disappointing draw against Morocco in their opening fixture, Brazil responded strongly against Haiti. Matheus Cunha scored twice, while Vinicius Junior added another goal as the five-time world champions secured their first win of the tournament.

The victory significantly improved Brazil’s chances of reaching the knockout stage, and Neymar’s expected return provides an additional boost ahead of the final group-stage match.

Neymar’s Experience Could Be Key

Brazil’s all-time leading scorer has registered 79 goals in 129 international appearances. The ongoing FIFA World Cup could be Neymar’s fourth and final appearance at football’s biggest tournament.

Despite concerns over his fitness following a serious ACL injury in 2023, Neymar showed encouraging form after returning to Santos earlier this year, contributing four goals and two assists in eight matches.

Brazil vs Scotland: A Crucial Group C Encounter

Brazil will face Scotland in Miami Gardens with qualification to the knockout rounds potentially on the line. Neymar’s return, combined with Brazil’s improved confidence after defeating Haiti, could play a decisive role in determining the outcome.

As the Selecao prepare for one of their most important matches of the group stage, all eyes will be on Neymar as he looks to make his long-awaited FIFA World Cup 2026 debut.