Vinicius Breaks 24-Year Brazil Record as Neymar Returns at FIFA World Cup 2026

Brazil superstar Neymar Jr. made his long-awaited return to international action on Wednesday, coming off the bench in Brazil's 3-0 victory over Scotland in their final Group C match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The appearance marked the 34-year-old's first outing for Brazil since 2023 and his fourth FIFA World Cup campaign.

Neymar returns after injury nightmare

Neymar entered the match in the 76th minute, replacing Matheus Cunha, as Brazil comfortably sealed victory and secured top spot in Group C.

The veteran forward had not featured for Brazil since October 2023, when he suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. The setback kept him out of action for an extended period and significantly limited his role during Brazil's qualification journey.

His appearance against Scotland also marked his first involvement in the ongoing World Cup after recovering from a calf injury.

Earlier in the tournament, Neymar remained at Brazil's training base in New Jersey while the squad travelled to Philadelphia for their match against Haiti, which Brazil won 4-0. He continued an individual rehabilitation programme before resuming on-field training and ball-work drills over the weekend.

Fourth World Cup milestone

The Scotland clash added another significant chapter to Neymar's international career as he became part of Brazil's World Cup squad for a fourth time.

The forward has now featured at four FIFA World Cups — 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026 — underlining his longevity as one of Brazil's most influential players of the modern era.

His return comes as a major boost for the five-time world champions as they prepare for the knockout stages.

Vinicius shines as Brazil top Group C

Brazil secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Scotland to finish atop Group C with seven points and qualify for the knockout rounds alongside Morocco.

Vinicius Jr. starred for the Selecao, scoring twice in the first half. He opened the scoring in the seventh minute before heading home his second goal just before the break. Matheus Cunha added Brazil's third goal after halftime to complete the rout.

The match also saw Vinicius achieve a notable milestone. He became the first Brazilian player in 24 years to score in each of the country's first three World Cup matches, matching a feat previously achieved by Ronaldo Nazario and Rivaldo during the 2002 tournament. He is only the fifth Brazilian overall to accomplish the record.

While Brazil celebrated progression to the next round, Scotland finished the group stage with three points and must now wait to discover whether that tally will be enough to secure qualification as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams.

(With inputs from ANI)