FIFA World Cup 2026: Ancelotti confirms Raphinha absence, gives Neymar fitness boost ahead of Scotland clash
Florida, June 24
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Barcelona forward Raphinha will miss his country's final FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match against Scotland on Wednesday, while stating that Neymar is fully fit and available to play the entire game if required.
Raphinha limped off from the field in the 40th minute of Brazil's 4-0 win over Haiti in their previous group-stage encounter after picking up an injury. The winger later expressed optimism over his recovery, posting on Instagram that he will "do everything in my power to recover and return as soon as possible."
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Ancelotti said Brazil's focus remains on fielding the strongest possible lineup for the decisive fixture.
"We're thinking of nothing else but playing a good match with the best possible line-up; the same goes for the forwards," he said, via Globo as quoted by The Athletic.
The head coach added, "We have a clear idea of who will replace Raphinha; there's no point worrying about cards."
Meanwhile, Neymar has not featured in Brazil's opening two matches due to a calf issue, but Ancelotti confirmed the forward is now fully available for selection.
"He is available, he trained very well this week," Ancelotti said. "He is fit and able and ready to play. We are very happy he is back. He is a high-quality player."
He further added that Neymar could feature for the full 90 minutes or be used from the bench, depending on match requirements.
"He can play from half-time or the whole 90 minutes. He is very well, he worked very hard, so he is ready. His attitude is very good, he's in good spirits, he's a good player, a good teammate. He's very serious, and we want to get him back to playing as soon as possible. I'm very happy. He brings experience, knowledge -- he is doing very well."
— ANI
Reader Comments
Ancelotti is a genius manager. The way he's handling Neymar's return is smart—no rush, just ease him back. Scotland will be tough, but Brazil has too much quality. Can't wait for the match!
Pakistan mein cricket, India mein cricket, but Brazil football always makes our hearts beat faster! Neymar's return is perfect timing. Scotland ko hara ke group top karenge! 🇧🇷⚽
Honestly, I think Neymar shouldn't start. He's been out for a while and Scotland is no joke. Better to bring him on in the second half. But Ancelotti knows better than any of us. Let's see.
Raphinha's injury is a blow, but Brazil has so many options—Vinicius, Rodrygo, Antony. Ancelotti will find a way. And Neymar back? Oh my god, Scotland defenders better be ready! 😂🔥
One thing I appreciate about Ancelotti: he always keeps the team's morale high. The way he speaks about Neymar, you can see the trust. I wish Indian football had this kind of professionalism. We have talent but lack infrastructure. Kaash hum bhi aise manage kar paate.
M We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.