Media365
Brazil fans have received mixed news ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 clash against Scotland on Thursday. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Raphinha will miss Brazil’s final group-stage match against Scotland on Wednesday (local time), while also revealing that Neymar is fully fit and available to play the entire game if required.Raphinha was forced off in the 40th minute of Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti in their previous group-stage fixture after suffering an injury. Despite the setback, the Barcelona winger remained optimistic about his recovery, posting on Instagram that he would “do everything in my power to recover and return as soon as possible.”With Raphinha unavailable, Ancelotti indicated that Neymar is likely to take his place, stressing that the veteran forward is ready to play a full 90 minutes if needed.“We’re thinking of nothing else but playing a good match with the best possible line-up; the same goes for the forwards,” Ancelotti said via Globo, as quoted by The Athletic.“Neymar is available, he trained very well this week, he is fit, ready to play, and we are very happy he is back. He is a high-quality player” Ancelotti added.The Brazilian coach further explained that Neymar could either start the match or be introduced from the bench, depending on the team’s needs.“He can play from half-time or the whole 90 minutes. He is doing very well and has worked extremely hard, so he is ready. His attitude has been excellent, he’s in good spirits, he’s a great player and a great teammate. He’s very serious, and we want to get him back playing as soon as possible. I’m very happy. He brings experience and knowledge, and he is doing very well,” Carlo Ancelotti concluded. Neymar has not featured in Brazil’s opening two matches against Morocco and Haiti due to a calf issue.
