Neymar Jr is set to return for Brazil as the Selecao prepare for their final group-stage match against Scotland on Thursday. After missing the earlier group games with Morocco and Haiti, the star has been declared fit and available — a timely boost for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
“Ney feels good, he can play! I’m very happy with him and his attitude in training every day,” Ancelotti confirmed, praising Neymar’s rehabilitation and commitment in recent sessions.
Neymar’s inclusion ends weeks of uncertainty about his tournament fitness. Absent from Brazil’s lineups versus Morocco and Haiti, his availability against Scotland restores a major creative outlet and psychological lift for a team aiming to finish the group strongly. When deployed, Neymar offers tactical flexibility: he can drift centrally as a playmaker, operate from the left to cut inside, or lead the line if needed. His vision and ability to unlock compact defenses provide Ancelotti with options to break Scotland’s organization and create scoring chances where others might struggle.
Scotland arrive as a robust, well-drilled unit, likely to challenge Brazil physically and threaten from set pieces.
The clash will test how Ancelotti manages Neymar’s minutes and integrates his flair without compromising midfield control and defensive solidity.
Key things to watch: will Neymar start or be eased in from the bench; how quickly he links with Brazil’s attackers after missing two matches; Neymar’s capacity to create or score decisive plays; and Brazil’s ability to protect transitions when he pushes forward.
Neymar’s presence raises Brazil’s ceiling as the tournament moves into the knockout phase and signals clear intent for the remainder of the World Cup. For fans it’s a relief — and for opponents, a reminder that Brazil still pack world-class talent capable of swinging matches.
