Pure, exhilarating football defined the match as Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil secured their place in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with an impressive 3-0 victory over Scotland. Amidst the heavy, humid Florida atmosphere, the Seleção didn’t just win; they dominated the game from start to finish, clinching the top position in Group C with a match to spare.
Despite their hard work, Scotland was left chasing shadows. Vinícius Júnior scored two goals before halftime, and Matheus Cunha added a third in the second half, leaving Steve Clarke’s squad without a response.
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Brazil Player Ratings vs Scotland: Seleção Shines in Miami
Here’s how the Brazilian players performed on a night when the five-time world champions showcased their remarkable talent.
Starting Eleven:
It was a quiet evening for the Liverpool goalkeeper, who spent the majority of the match observing his teammates control the game. Scotland rarely posed a threat, but when Scott McTominay sent a powerful header towards the top corner, Alisson was quick to react, delivering an impressive save to maintain the clean sheet.
Defensively solid. He managed to neutralize the threat posed by Andrew Robertson early in the game without any major trouble. However, a clumsy tackle in the second half resulted in a yellow card, slightly overshadowing an otherwise disciplined display.
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The captain delivered a commanding performance, reading the game exceptionally well. He stepped forward from the backline to intercept several long balls meant for Lawrence Shankland, showcasing total composure throughout the match.
Gabriel Magalhães: 7/10
A powerhouse on the pitch. He paired well with Marquinhos, bringing physicality to the backline against a determined Scottish attack. His precise passing helped initiate plays, keeping Brazil on the offensive.
Played it safe. He utilized width to stretch the Scottish midfield but refrained from taking unnecessary risks on the ball, effectively nullifying Ben Doak before being substituted late in the game.
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The veteran presence. Positioned right in front of the defense, he effectively disrupted any rare Scottish counter-attacks with his usual tenacity. Ancelotti substituted him early to preserve his energy for future challenges.
Bruno Guimarães: 8.5/10
A standout performance. He completely controlled the midfield, providing a beautiful cross that led to the second goal and showcased his strength by winning the ball from Kenny McLean before assisting Cunha for the third goal. Simply brilliant.
Lucas Paquetá: 6.5/10
Clean and efficient. He ensured fluid ball movement with his clever flicks into the final third. He had a clear chance to score in the second half but unfortunately sent his effort soaring over the bar.
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A rising star. Given a starting role by Ancelotti, his relentless pressing led to an early mistake by Scott McKenna, which he capitalized on, calmly assisting the opening goal.
Matheus Cunha: 8/10
Consistent and energetic. He kept the Scottish center-backs under constant pressure with his movement and was rewarded just after the hour mark with a powerful finish past Angus Gunn following an impressive team buildup.
Vinícius Júnior: 9.5/10
Unstoppable force. He was undoubtedly the best player on the field, opening the scoring with a tap-in and heading in the second goal, while a potential third was controversially ruled out by VAR. The Scottish defense will surely have nightmares about him.
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Substitutes
His entry added significant energy to the left flank, pushing against weary legs and stretching the game, though his final pass lacked precision on this occasion.
Fabinho (Sub 65′): 5.5/10
Came on to stabilize the team but quickly picked up a yellow card for a late challenge. He settled in afterward, maintaining simplicity in his play.
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JUNE 24: Neymar Jr #10 of Brazil prays as he is substituted during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C match between Scotland and Brazil at Miami Stadium on June 24, 2026, in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
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The crowd erupted as he entered the match. Recently recovered from injury, Neymar appeared lively, winning free-kicks and showcasing his trademark skills.
Came on for the final ten minutes to help secure the clean sheet—no fuss involved.
A brief appearance for the young talent, who buzzed around the box, eager to score, but ultimately ran out of time.