By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Brazil are set to receive a major boost ahead of their decisive FIFA World Cup clash against Scotland, with star forward Neymar Jr. expected to make his long-awaited return to action after recovering from injury.
The 34-year-old forward, who has missed Brazil’s opening matches at the tournament, is scheduled to resume individual training on Saturday before rejoining full team sessions on Sunday, according to Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Speaking after Brazil’s convincing 3-0 victory over Haiti, Ancelotti confirmed that the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star is on course to be included in the squad for Brazil’s next Group C encounter against Scotland.
“Neymar will train individually tomorrow, then Sunday back training with the team and then called up against Scotland,” Ancelotti announced after the win.
The news comes as a huge morale boost for the five-time world champions, who strengthened their hopes of reaching the knockout stage with victory over Haiti. Neymar’s return would provide Brazil with additional creativity, experience and attacking quality at a crucial stage of the tournament.
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Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation, Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time leading scorer and one of the country’s most influential footballers. His absence had raised concerns among supporters, but Ancelotti’s latest update suggests the talisman is ready to make his first appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Brazil have so far demonstrated their strength even without their iconic No. 10, but the prospect of Neymar linking up again with the likes of Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo and Raphinha has heightened expectations among fans.
The Merit Newspaper acknowledges that the upcoming clash against Scotland promises to be one of the most anticipated matches of the group stage, with Brazil seeking to secure qualification for the knockout rounds and Scotland aiming to keep their own hopes alive.
For Neymar, the encounter could mark another chapter in an illustrious international career and offer him the opportunity to play a decisive role as Brazil continue their quest for a record-extending sixth World Cup title.
With the knockout rounds approaching, the return of their talisman could not have come at a better time for the Seleção.
