Brazilian fans have received mixed news ahead of Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Scotland. Brazil coach Ancelotti confirmed that Rafinha will miss Brazil’s final group match against Scotland on Wednesday (local time), while also revealing that Neymar is fully fit and can play the entire game if needed.In the last group match, when Brazil defeated Haiti 3-0, Rafinha was forced off the field due to injury in the 40th minute. Despite the setback, the Barcelona winger remains optimistic about his recovery, posting on Instagram that he will “do my best to recover and return as soon as possible”.With Rafinha unavailable, Ancelotti said Neymar is likely to take his place, stressing that the experienced striker is ready to play the full 90 minutes if needed.“We just want to have a good game with the best possible lineup; the same goes for the forwards,” Ancelotti said via Globo, according to The Athletic.Ancelotti added: “Neymar is available, he has trained well this week, he is in good shape and ready to play and we are happy to have him back. He is a high-quality player.”The Brazilian coach further explained that Neymar can start or come on as a substitute, depending on the team’s needs.Ancelotti concluded: “He can start at half-time or play the full 90 minutes. He is doing a good job, working very hard, so he is ready. His attitude is very good, he is mentally very good, he is a great player and team-mate. He is very serious and we hope he can return to the game as soon as possible. I am very happy. He brings experience and knowledge and he does a good job.” Neymar did not play in Brazil’s first two matches against Morocco and Haiti due to a calf problem.
