Vinicius Junior scored twice as Brazil cruised to a 3-0 victory over Scotland on Wednesday in Miami, securing first place in Group C and advancing to the World Cup last 32. Scotland now face the risk of another group-stage elimination.
Brazil Dominate Early
The Real Madrid star took advantage of a defensive error to give Brazil an early lead in the seventh minute. Scott McKenna, brought into defense for Grant Hanley, was too casual in possession in his own box and was closed down by Bournemouth forward Rayan, who then set up Vinicius to round goalkeeper Angus Gunn and score.
Scotland had a lucky escape midway through the first half when another defensive mistake led to a goal that was disallowed after a VAR check ruled that Vinicius had clipped Jack Hendry's leg. However, Brazil doubled their lead in first-half stoppage time when an Andy Robertson pass was intercepted inside his own area, leading to a cross from Bruno Guimaraes that Vinicius headed home.
Matheus Cunha Adds Third
After the break, Brazil continued to press. Gunn saved from Vinicius to deny his hat-trick, but Manchester United's Matheus Cunha scored his third goal of the tournament in the 60th minute from a Guimaraes lay-off. Brazil could have won by more, but Alisson twice denied Scott McTominay, and a consolation goal for Scotland might have been significant in their quest to reach the next round.
Neymar Returns
Neymar, Brazil's all-time top scorer, made his first international appearance in over two-and-a-half years when he came on for Cunha in the 76th minute to huge cheers. He had been absent from the Selecao since October 2023.
Group Standings and Next Matches
Brazil topped Group C with seven points, ahead of Morocco on goal difference. Morocco secured second place after coming from behind twice to beat Haiti 4-2 in Atlanta. Scotland finished third with three points and a goal difference of minus three. They must now wait to see if that is enough to advance as one of the eight best third-placed teams.
Brazil will face the runners-up in Group F in a last-32 tie in Houston on June 29. That opponent could be the Netherlands, Japan, or Sweden. Scotland's fate depends on results in other groups.
Vinicius in Form
Vinicius has scored four goals in three group games, making him the first Brazilian to score in every group match at a World Cup since Ronaldo and Rivaldo both did it in 2002. He is one goal behind Lionel Messi and level with Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe in the golden boot race.
This was Brazil's fourth win in five World Cup meetings with Scotland, the exception being a goalless draw in 1974.
