Injured Neymar set to return for Brazil's Group C finale against Scotland

Neymar (34, Santos), who missed Brazil's first two 2026 World Cup group-stage matches against Morocco and Haiti due to a calf injury, is set to play in the team's third match against Scotland on Thursday.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti made the announcement after his side beat Haiti 3-0 in their Group C second match on Saturday. "Neymar will join team training after completing individual sessions on Monday," Ancelotti said. "He should be able to play in the final group-stage match against Scotland."

Even among a Brazil squad packed with star players, Neymar remains the most closely watched. The holder of Brazil's all-time international scoring record — 79 goals in 128 appearances — is competing in his fourth World Cup, having previously appeared at the 2014, 2018 and 2022 tournaments.

Neymar injured his right calf muscle last month and has been focused on rehabilitation and recovery, sitting out both group-stage matches.

Without him, Brazil drew 1-1 with a stubborn Morocco side before routing Haiti by three goals to move to the top of their group.

Criticism of Neymar has grown as he occupies a roster spot while contributing nothing on the pitch. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva even took a pointed jab, joking that Neymar was "the world's first national team player called up to work from home."

Neymar had originally been expected to return in peak condition in time for the round of 32, but Ancelotti has decided to give him playing time in Thursday's group finale against Scotland to sharpen his match fitness.

Neymar has not played for the national team since suffering a serious knee injury during a South American World Cup qualifier away to Uruguay in October 2023.