FIFA World Cup 2026: "Group wants to win," says Neymar after Brazil's 3-0 win over Scotland
Florida, June 25
Brazil star Neymar expressed strong confidence in his team's World Cup 2026 campaign after their commanding 3-0 victory over Scotland in a Group C fixture on Wednesday.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Neymar said the team is united and fully focused on achieving their target in the tournament.
"I'm eager for it, not just me, but the whole team. The group wants to win. We know that if we unite and this 'desire' grows stronger and stronger, we have a great chance of achieving our goal," he said.
Neymar took the field for Brazil for the first time since 2023 as the 34-year-old came off the bench in the closing stages. Neymar marked his return to the field after recovering from a calf injury, after he missed the first two Group C matches.
Neymar not only marked his first appearance in the ongoing World Cup but also marked his return to action for the first time since October 2023, when he sustained a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay.
The injury ruled him out for an extended period and limited his involvement in Brazil's qualification campaign.
Neymar entered the field in the 76th minute of the match against Scotland as he substituted Matheus Cunha.
The forward came on to make his fourth FIFA World Cup appearance, completing a remarkable milestone in his international career. He has now featured in the 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026 editions of the tournament.
Coming to the Brazil vs Scotland match, Brazil defeated Scotland 3-0 in their final Group C match, securing top spot in the group and advancing to the knockout stage alongside Morocco. Vinicius starred with a first-half brace, opening the scoring in the seventh minute and heading in his second just before half-time, before Matheus Cunha added a third goal after the break.
The win also saw Brazil dominate proceedings, with Scotland struggling to create clear chances despite a few late efforts. The match also marked a historic milestone for Vinicius, who became the first Brazilian in 24 years to score in each of the nation's first three World Cup matches, equalling the feat of Ronaldo Nazario and Rivaldo from 2002.
He also became only the fifth Brazilian overall to achieve the record. Brazil finished the group stage with seven points, while Scotland must now wait to see if their three-point tally is enough to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Neymar at 34, still coming back from ACL injury - that's pure determination! But I'm slightly worried about rushing him. Brazil's young guns like Vinicius and Cunha are already delivering. Smart management by the coach to ease him in.
Scotland fought hard but Brazil's class showed. Vinicius making history by scoring in all three group matches - unbelievable! Reminds me of watching Ronaldo and Rivaldo in 2002. India needs to learn from Brazil's football culture to develop our own talent.
Great win for Brazil! Neymar's quote about the group wanting to win shows the right mentality. 👏 I just hope the team doesn't become too dependent on individual brilliance. In knockout matches, tactics matter more than star power. Vinicius is proving he's world-class though.
As someone who grew up watching Ronaldinho and Kaka, seeing a new generation of Brazilian stars is heartwarming. Neymar's fourth World Cup is incredible longevity. But I feel Scotland deserved more credit - they played with heart despite being outclassed. The World Cup needs more underdog stories!
Neymar's return is emotional but let's be honest - Brazil didn't need him today. Vinicius and Cunha showed the future is bright. The team unity Neymar talks about is crucial for knockout stages. Hope India can host a World Cup someday and inspire our own footballing dreams 🇮🇳
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