Brazil dominated Scotland 3-0 on Wednesday night in Miami, finishing top of Group C at the 2026 World Cup, ahead of Morocco. After their opening draw against Morocco and then their victory against Haiti, the Seleção secured a comfortable win without having to exert themselves for the full ninety minutes.
Vinicius Jr opened the scoring very early, in the 7th minute, after a major error by Scott McKenna. The Scottish defender was dispossessed by Rayan on a seemingly harmless clearance. The ball fell to Vinicius, who rounded goalkeeper Angus Gunn before slotting it into the empty net.
Vinicius punishes Scotland
Scotland, already struggling offensively, never really managed to trouble Brazil. Scott McTominay had two headed chances, in the 49th and 65th minutes, but Alisson was equal to the task. Brazil comfortably managed their lead for much of the game. In the 22nd minute, Vinicius thought he had scored a second goal after intercepting Hendry's pass, but the referee disallowed it for a foul by the striker. The Seleção finally extended their lead just before halftime. From a precise cross by Bruno Guimaraes, Vinicius Jr. completed his brace with a header in first-half stoppage time, in the 45th+3 minute. Brazil then led 2-0, having completely controlled the match.
Cunha concludes, Brazil in control
With Matheus Cunha leading the line and Rayan starting in place of the injured Raphinha, Brazil gradually gained momentum. After several long-range shots from Vinicius, Rayan, and Cunha, the Seleção accelerated as soon as they found space in behind the defense. Cunha's initial attempt was saved by Ferguson in the 45th minute. Then, on the hour mark, a well-worked Brazilian team move allowed the former Lyon player to tap the ball into an empty net to score Brazil's third goal in the 60th minute.
Neymar acclaimed for his return
The highlight of the end of the match came in the 76th minute. The crowd chanted the name of NeymarAccompanied by the bagpipes of the Scottish fans, Carlo Ancelotti responded by bringing on the former Parisian in place of Matheus Cunha. Neymar didn't have time to truly influence the match, but his return to the Seleção was a highlight of the evening. In the final minutes, Vinicius missed two clear chances, in the 76th and 80th minutes.
Morocco also passes, Scotland waits
In the other match in the group, Morocco beat Haiti 4-2 and will join Brazil in the next round of the competition. Scotland, despite their defeat against the Seleção, still retain a slim hope of qualifying depending on the results of the other groups…
