Brazil fans received mixed news ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup clash against Scotland on Thursday. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Raphinha will miss Brazil’s final group stage game against Scotland on Wednesday (local time), while also revealing that Neymar is fully fit and can play the whole game if needed.Raphinha was forced off in the 40th minute of Brazil’s 3-0 win over Haiti in their 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 forward is ready to play the full 90 minutes if necessary.“We are not thinking about anything else but to play a good game with the best possible formation; the same goes for the forwards,” Ancelotti said via Globo, as reported by The Athletic.“Neymar is available, he trained very well this week, he is fit, ready to play and we are very happy that he is back. He is a high quality player,” added Ancelotti.The Brazilian coach further explained that Neymar can start the game 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 works very well and worked extremely hard, so he is ready. His attitude was excellent, he is in a good mood, he is a great player and a great teammate. He is very serious and we want to get him back in the game as soon as possible. I am very happy. He brings experience and knowledge and he is doing very well,” concluded Carlo Ancelotti. Neymar did not play in Brazil’s first two matches against Morocco and Haiti due to calf problems.
