25/06/2026 19:34 - Deportes
The Brazilian National Team secured a convincing 3-0 win against Scotland on June 24, 2026, in the third round of Group C at the 2026 World Cup. This victory ensured their classification to the Round of 16 as group leaders with 7 points. However, the headline story was the deeply emotional return of Neymar, who wore the 'Canarinha' jersey for an official match after waiting 981 days.
The star, currently playing for Santos FC in Brazil, entered the match in the second half. Despite the favorable scoreline, he experienced a moment of high emotion in the mixed zone. "I got emotional, I cried alone in the locker room because coming back to live all this is a huge relief. I have always dreamed of wearing the national team shirt, playing in a World Cup, and maybe even winning it," confessed the forward.
Context for international readers: Santos FC is a historic Brazilian club where legends like Pelé and Neymar himself began their professional careers. The term 'Canarinha' refers to the Brazilian national team, affectionately named after their iconic bright yellow jersey.
Neymar's return coincided with a very special date for Argentine football: Lionel Messi's 39th birthday. Messi, the captain of the Argentine National Team and reigning World Champion, celebrated on the same day as the match. When asked about his friend and former FC Barcelona teammate, Neymar had glowing praise for his character:
"Messi is a person who is even better off the pitch. On the field, he's good, right? Imagine off it. I am very happy to know him, to have played with him; he is a great friend. We talk a lot, even in these days, he knows I love him very much."
The Brazilian star also acknowledged the support from Argentina: "Thanks to the people of Argentina for the love they always give me."
Neymar highlighted the outstanding performance of Vinicius Jr., who scored a brace (two goals), and Matheus Cunha, who scored the third:
"Vini is our key piece right now and is in incredible form. Now we are in the knockout phase: we have to keep winning to reach our final goal."
Regarding his physical condition after such a long absence, he joked: "I could play 200 minutes, ha ha," noting that he trained intensely for 25 days to be ready for the tournament.
Vinicius Jr. is a global superstar currently playing for Real Madrid, widely regarded as one of the best wingers in world football.
With this victory, Brazil finished top of the group on goal difference. The Round of 16 matchup is now set:
| Team | Points | Goal Diff. | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brazil | 7 | +6 | Qualified (1st) |
| Morocco | 7 | +3 | Qualified (2nd) |
| Scotland | 3 | - | Third Place |
| Haiti | 0 | - | Eliminated |
Next Steps: Brazil will face the runner-up of Group F on June 29 in Houston, while Morocco will play against the winner of Group F in Monterrey.
Source: TyC Sports
Alfredo S. Quiroga
