‘Neymar is ready’: Carlo Ancelotti gives key update ahead of World Cup clash against Scotland

Neymar Jr. training at a camp in Brazil (Image: @CBF_Futebol/X) Brazilian fans received mixed messages ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Scotland on Thursday. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Raphinha will miss Brazil’s final group stage match against Scotland on Wednesday (local time), while also revealing that Neymar is fully fit and ready to play the full game if needed.Raphinha was forced off in the 40th minute of Brazil’s 3-0 win over Haiti in the previous group stage match after picking up an injury. Despite the setback, the Barcelona winger remained optimistic about his recovery, posting on Instagram that he would “do everything in my power to recover and come back as soon as possible.”With Raphinha unavailable, Ancelotti hinted that Neymar is likely to take his place, stressing that the veteran striker is ready to play the full 90 minutes if needed.“We are thinking of nothing else but to play a good match with the best possible lineup; the same goes for the forwards,” Ancelotti said via Globo, as quoted by The Athletic.“Neymar is available, he trained very well this week, he is fit, ready to play and we are very happy to have him back. He is a high-quality player,” added Ancelotti.The Brazilian coach further explained that Neymar can either start the match or be introduced from the bench, depending on the needs of the team.“He can play from half-time or the full 90 minutes. He is doing very well and has worked extremely hard so he is ready. His attitude has been excellent, he is in a good mood, he is a great player and a great team-mate. He is very serious and we want to get him back as soon as possible. I am very happy. He brings experience and knowledge and is doing very well,” concluded Carlo Ancelotti. Neymar did not start Brazil’s opening two games against Morocco and Haiti due to a calf problem.