Brazil Finish Top of Group C
Brazil secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Scotland on Wednesday to finish top of Group C and book their place in the World Cup last 32.
Vinicius Junior scored twice in Miami, while Matheus Cunha added a third goal. As a result, Brazil ended the group stage as winners and continued their unbeaten run.
Meanwhile, Scotland face an anxious wait to discover whether they can qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
Vinicius Continues Brilliant Form
Vinicius opened the scoring in the seventh minute after a costly mistake by Scotland defender Scott McKenna.
The defender lost possession inside his own penalty area after pressure from Rayan. The Bournemouth forward quickly passed to Vinicius, who rounded goalkeeper Angus Gunn and scored.
The Real Madrid star has now scored in all three group matches. In addition, he became the first Brazilian player to score in every group game at a World Cup since Ronaldo and Rivaldo achieved the feat in 2002.
With four goals, Vinicius sits among the leading scorers at the tournament.
Scotland Struggle at the Back
Scotland had another difficult evening in defence. Earlier in the first half, Vinicius thought he had scored his second goal after winning possession from Jack Hendry.
However, the goal was ruled out after a VAR review showed that the Brazilian had fouled the defender.
Nevertheless, Brazil continued to dominate possession and create chances.
Just before halftime, Brazil doubled their lead. Andy Robertson misplaced a pass near his own area, allowing Bruno Guimaraes to regain possession.
The midfielder crossed into the box, and Vinicius headed home in stoppage time.
Cunha Adds Third Goal
Brazil remained in control after the break. Although Angus Gunn denied Vinicius a hat-trick, the third goal soon arrived.
Matheus Cunha scored on the hour mark after receiving a pass from Guimaraes. The Manchester United forward calmly finished to make it 3-0.
Brazil could have scored even more goals as Scotland struggled to respond.
At the other end, Scott McTominay came close to reducing the deficit. However, goalkeeper Alisson made two important saves to keep a clean sheet.
Neymar Makes Long-Awaited Return
One of the biggest moments of the match came in the 76th minute.
Neymar entered the game for Cunha and made his first appearance for Brazil since October 2023. The crowd welcomed the country’s all-time leading scorer with loud cheers.
His return provides a major boost for coach Carlo Ancelotti as Brazil prepare for the knockout stage.
Brazil Look Ahead to Last 32
Brazil finished top of Group C on goal difference ahead of Morocco, who defeated Haiti 4-2.
The five-time world champions will now travel to Houston for a last-32 match on June 29. Their opponents will be the runners-up from Group F, which includes the Netherlands, Japan and Sweden.
Meanwhile, Scotland remain third in the group with three points and a goal difference of minus three. Steve Clarke’s side must now wait to learn if they have done enough to reach the knockout rounds.
