Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti expects star forward Neymar to be available for the Selecao’s final Group C match against Scotland after continuing his recovery from a calf injury.
The 34-year-old has not played since featuring for Santos FC on May 17, but Ancelotti confirmed Neymar’s rehabilitation is progressing well following Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti.
“Neymar will be training tomorrow individually, and on Monday, he’s going to be training with the rest of the team,” Ancelotti said. “He will be available for the match against Scotland.”
Brazil head into Wednesday’s showdown in Miami Gardens knowing a win or draw will be enough to secure progression to the Round of 32. The five-time champions currently lead Group C on goal difference after collecting four points from their opening two matches.
While Neymar’s expected return is a major boost, Ancelotti remained non-committal over his attacking line-up after Matheus Cunha impressed with a first-half brace against Haiti. The striker was handed a starting role after Brazil’s opening draw with Morocco and repaid his coach’s faith with a clinical display.
Ancelotti praised Cunha’s movement and ability to create problems for defenders but suggested he could still alter his tactical approach for the Scotland encounter.
“It can be an option,” Ancelotti said. “I don’t want a clear identity. Maybe we will change this on the next match.”
Despite Scotland’s difficult position in the group after a 1-0 defeat to Morocco, Ancelotti warned against complacency, noting the Scots caused plenty of problems in their previous outing.
Rather than focusing on eliminating their opponents, the Brazilian coach said his priority remains improving performances and securing top spot in the group, which could provide a more favourable route through the knockout rounds.
