FIFA World Cup: Neymar Returns to Full Fitness, Available for Brazil's Crucial Scotland Test

Los Angeles: Brazil head coach has confirmed that Neymar has returned to full fitness and is available for selection ahead of the Seleção's crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C encounter against Scotland.

The development comes as a significant boost for the five-time world champions, who are aiming to finish top of Group C and carry momentum into the knockout stages of the tournament. Neymar, whose fitness had been closely monitored following recent injury concerns, resumed full training with the squad and has been cleared for match action.

Brazil enter the contest in a strong position after collecting four points from their opening two matches. The South American giants began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Morocco before registering a convincing 3-0 victory over Haiti in their second outing.

Scotland, meanwhile, face a daunting challenge. The Scots opened their World Cup journey with a narrow victory over Haiti but suffered a setback in a 1-0 defeat to Morocco. As a result, they require a positive result against Brazil to strengthen their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds.

Neymar's availability adds experience, creativity and attacking quality to an already formidable Brazilian squad. The veteran forward remains one of the most recognizable figures in world football and continues to play a key leadership role despite the emergence of a new generation of Brazilian talent.

Brazil's coaching staff are expected to make a late decision on whether Neymar starts or is introduced from the bench. Regardless of his role, his return provides additional tactical flexibility and a psychological lift for the squad ahead of a high-stakes group-stage fixture.

The match is also expected to attract significant global attention, with Scotland hoping to produce one of the tournament's biggest upsets against a side widely regarded as one of the favourites for the World Cup crown.

For Brazil, victory would likely secure first place in Group C and reinforce their status as serious contenders for the title. For Scotland, a positive result could prove decisive in their pursuit of a place in the expanded Round of 32.

With Neymar back in contention and both teams carrying plenty to play for, the clash promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the final round of group-stage matches.