Brazil legend Neymar made a tearful return to the field for his national side as the Selecao beat Scotland 3-0 in their final group game at the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar, who last played for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023, was originally something of a surprise inclusion in the Brazil squad for the tournament, and missed the opening two games due to a calf injury.
However, the 34-year-old recovered in time to make the bench for the final game of Group C, and with Brazil 3-0 up and cruising he was brought on for Matheus Cunha in the 76th minute.
The Selecao forward was making his 129th appearance for the national side and he was visibly emotional after coming onto the pitch at the Miami Stadium.
He was pictured wiping tears from his eyes during his cameo, and later embraced both his teammates and his family at the full-time whistle.
While still a Brazil legend, Neymar now plays for Santos in his home country, and narrowly avoided relegation at the end of last season. Though he was included in Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man squad, he is not expected to play a huge part in a starting XI that can boast the likes of Vini Jr., Raphinha and Matheus Cunha.
Nevertheless, he was fairly bright during his limited cameo against Scotland, and has plenty to prove now that he has minutes in his legs at the World Cup.
The result this evening means that Brazil qualify top of Group C ahead of Morocco, with the Selecao set to face the runner-up from Group F, which contains the Netherlands, Japan and Sweden. That match will take place in Houston on Monday, 29 June.
