Ancelotti Confirms Neymar Fit for Scotland Clash, Raphinha Ruled Out due to Injury

Sports Desk 

MIAMI: Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar is available for selection ahead of Brazil’s final FIFA World Cup group-stage match against Scotland, although he did not disclose whether the star forward will start on Wednesday.

Neymar returned to Brazil’s World Cup squad after being sidelined from international duty for nearly three years. The 34-year-old has yet to feature in the tournament as he continued his recovery from a calf injury.

Speaking during a media briefing on Tuesday, Ancelotti expressed satisfaction with Neymar’s progress and praised the veteran forward for his commitment during rehabilitation.

“Neymar is available for the match,” Ancelotti said. “He has trained well throughout the week and is ready to help the team. We are pleased to have him back because his quality and experience are valuable assets for the squad.”

The Brazilian coach also highlighted Neymar’s positive influence off the pitch, noting that his presence has benefited younger players in the camp.

“He has approached his recovery professionally and worked hard to return as soon as possible,” Ancelotti added. “Even when he is not playing, he contributes with his experience and understanding of the game.”

When questioned about Neymar’s potential playing time, the former Real Madrid manager joked before confirming the forward’s fitness.

“He can play 90 minutes—walking,” Ancelotti said with a smile. “But seriously, he is in good condition and has trained very well.”

Brazil head into the Scotland encounter in a strong position after opening their Group C campaign with a 1-1 draw against Morocco before securing a convincing 3-0 victory over Haiti. A win against Scotland would guarantee qualification for the Round of 32.

Ancelotti believes his side have improved with each match and expects another step forward in their performance.

“We carry great responsibility whenever we represent Brazil at a World Cup,” he said. “Our first game was not our strongest display, the second was much better, and we hope the third will be our best performance so far.”

Brazil will, however, be without winger Raphinha, who has been ruled out after suffering a hamstring injury. Ancelotti declined to reveal who would replace the Barcelona star in the starting lineup. Despite Scotland’s inconsistent results in the tournament, the Italian coach warned that Steve Clarke’s team should not be underestimated.

“Scotland are a well-organised side with experienced players,” he said. “They compete hard and have quality throughout the squad. Players like Scott McTominay and John McGinn are familiar with high-pressure matches, so we expect a difficult contest.”

Brazil’s preparations were briefly disrupted on Tuesday when the team’s flight from New Jersey to Miami was delayed, resulting in a later-than-planned press conference.

However, Ancelotti downplayed the inconvenience and said it would not affect his enjoyment of coaching at his first FIFA World Cup. “Everything had gone smoothly before today,” he said. “We had a small travel issue, but these things happen. We have confidence in our team and believe we can have a successful tournament. Football is unpredictable, but this World Cup experience has already been very special.”