Vinicius Jr Joins Brazil Legends as Selecao Cruise Into FIFA World Cup Knockouts

Vinicius Jr continued his sensational FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with another match-winning performance as Brazil defeated Scotland 3-0 to finish top of Group C and advance to the knockout stage in style.

The Real Madrid star struck twice in Miami, taking his tournament tally to four goals and becoming the first Brazilian player since the legendary duo of Ronaldo and Rivaldo in 2002 to score in all three World Cup group-stage matches.

With the achievement, Vinicius joined an exclusive list of Brazilian greats that includes Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Romario and Jairzinho. The 26-year-old has emerged as Brazil’s biggest attacking weapon, scoring four goals in three matches and putting himself firmly in the Golden Boot race alongside Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.

Brazil’s dominance against Scotland reflected the growing influence of head coach Carlo Ancelotti. After a slow start to the tournament, the five-time world champions have steadily improved, collecting seven points from three matches and entering the Round of 32 with growing momentum.

Vinicius opened the scoring in the seventh minute after capitalising on a defensive mistake before adding a second goal deep into first-half stoppage time with a rare header. Matheus Cunha completed the scoring in the second half as Brazil comfortably secured victory.

The performance once again highlighted Brazil’s tactical evolution under Ancelotti. The experienced manager made key adjustments, including deploying Matheus Cunha as a fluid false nine and allowing Bruno Guimaraes and Lucas Paqueta greater freedom in attacking areas.

Guimaraes played a crucial role in the win, providing assists for both Vinicius and Cunha. Since Brazil’s opening draw against Morocco, either Guimaraes or Paqueta has been directly involved in five of the team’s six goals.

The match also marked the return of Neymar, who came off the bench in the 76th minute to make his first appearance of the tournament. While the veteran forward received a huge ovation from supporters, it was Vinicius who once again stole the spotlight.

South Africa Create World Cup History

Elsewhere, South Africa produced one of the stories of the tournament by defeating South Korea 1-0 and reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history.

Thapelo Maseko scored the decisive goal in the 63rd minute as Hugo Broos’ side completed a remarkable turnaround after a difficult start to their campaign. Having suffered disciplinary setbacks and administrative challenges before the tournament, South Africa showed resilience to secure qualification.

The historic victory capped an impressive recovery following a draw against Czechia and highlighted the progress made under veteran coach Hugo Broos.

Meanwhile, Mexico completed a perfect group-stage campaign with three wins from three matches to finish top of Group A, while South Africa secured second place and a historic passage into the knockout rounds.

As the tournament enters its decisive phase, Brazil’s growing confidence and Vinicius Jr’s outstanding form have strengthened their credentials as genuine contenders for a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title.