Brazil and Scotland renew World Cup rivalry in Miami group finale

Brazil and Scotland will face each other for the fifth time at a World Cup on Wednesday in Miami, renewing one of the tournament's most-played group-stage fixtures. The Group C encounter comes after Scotland opened with a 1-0 win over Haiti and a 1-0 loss to Morocco. A draw would almost certainly send the Scots through as one of the eight best third-placed teams.

Historical meetings The sides have met four times at World Cups between 1974 and 1998, all in the group stage. Scotland has never advanced beyond the first round. In 1982, David Narey's goal for Scotland briefly led before Brazil responded with four goals. The 1974 match ended 0-0, and Brazil won 1-0 in 1990. In 1998, Scotland lost 2-1 after an own goal.

Current stakes Scotland defender Jack Hendry said the team wants to disrupt Brazil's history. Midfielder John McGinn, who was three years old during the last meeting, called the Miami fixture a dream opportunity. Brazil enters with four points alongside Morocco and must win to guarantee progression. The team is missing forward Raphinha due to injury.

Neymar availability Neymar has been called up after recovering from a calf injury that kept him out of Brazil's first two matches. The 34-year-old has not played for the national team since October 2023. Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli said the squad was impressed by Neymar's training form and eager to see him play.

Brazil's last match against Scotland was a 2011 friendly in London where Neymar scored twice. Scotland full-back Aaron Hickey remains a doubt after missing the Morocco game.