Brazil could receive a major boost ahead of their final game in Group C of the World Cup against Scotland, as Neymar is on the verge of making his long-awaited return to football in his home country.
The 34-year-old forward has resumed full training with the Brazilian squad after a calf injury kept him out since May. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has already confirmed that Neymar will be part of the matchday squad but will start on the bench in Thursday’s game.
Martinelli: Neymar Is Motivated and Ready
Neymar has been very energetic and determined since returning, Gabriel Martinelli, a Brazilian winger, said.
"He's at a high level and he’s very motivated to play,” Martinelli said. “Everyone knows his quality. We can see how driven he is, and we are very happy to have a player like that available and showing the attitude and desire he has been demonstrating."
Neymar would be making his first appearance for Brazil since sustaining a serious ACL injury in October 2023. In spite of the long break, he is still Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals in 128 international appearances.
More Than Just Three Points at Stake
Brazil is currently at the top of Group C with four points, level with the Morocco national football team, but ahead on goal difference. A win over the Scotland national football team would make first place almost certain and lead to a more favorable path to the knockout stages.
The importance of finishing first goes beyond football but also in the players’ lives. Brazil’s players want to stay at their current Miami base where they have access to top-class training facilities and accommodation. To finish second would require moving to Mexico, disrupting the team's preparation schedule.
"We want to win and qualify in first place," Martinelli said. “Staying here gives us better conditions. The training center and hotel are great and it helps the group stay together and focus on the tournament."
Neymar's Final World Cup Journey?
Neymar has even said that the 2026 World Cup could be his last. After years of injury and setbacks, he returns so early in the tournament and has a big chance of winning a record sixth World Cup title for Brazil.
Whether he starts or comes off the bench, Neymar’s presence in particular is a huge psychological boost for a Brazilian side that is looking to build momentum for the knockout stage. For fans, Thursday’s match against Scotland could serve as one last World Cup moment for one of football’s most iconic stars.
