Published on 6/25/2026
Brazilian star Neymar finally returned to wearing the Brazil national team shirt in the 2026 World Cup, after participating in the 3-0 victory over Scotland, in his first official appearance with the Seleção in nearly three years.
On the field of Miami Stadium, Brazilian football fans lived a long-awaited moment when Neymar entered the field in the 76th minute, amid warm applause from the fans, to play his 129th international match after an absence that lasted 980 days due to a series of injuries that kept him from the national team.
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A long-awaited return
Although the Brazilian team had practically decided the match before his entry, all eyes turned to Neymar, who returned to play for his country for the first time since September 2023. The Santos striker replaced Matheus Cunha, while Brazil was ahead by three thanks to the brilliance of star Vinicius Junior, who scored a brace and continued his strong performances in the tournament.
A promising duo with Vinicius
Despite participating for only twenty minutes, Neymar succeeded in leaving his mark quickly, as he showed glimpses of his usual skills and movements between the lines, and he also created a great opportunity for his colleague Vinicius with a smart pass that broke the Scottish defence.
The few minutes he played showed the existence of great harmony between the two Brazilian stars, which gave the fans hope of forming an attacking duo capable of leading the team towards competing for the world title.
Neymar also excelled in executing free kicks and corners, and threatened the goal with a powerful shot, confirming that he is still capable of making a difference despite the long period of absence.
Tears and indescribable joy
When the final whistle sounded, Neymar could not contain his emotions, and his tears flowed as he celebrated his expected return before heading to his family, who was watching the match from the stands.
The player said after the match: “My heart was beating very fast. I was very nervous, but I was very happy. Physically, I feel at my best.”
Ancelotti praises the return of his star
For his part, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti praised Neymar’s performance, stressing that the player deserved the opportunity to participate after the great work he did during the recovery period.
The Italian coach explained that Neymar still has the ability to help the team during the World Cup, especially when he moves freely between the depth and the flanks, which gives him an important tactical advantage.
Although Neymar does not yet appear ready to play a full match or lead the team from the beginning against the strongest competitors, his appearance against Scotland sent a clear message that one of the greatest players in Brazilian history is back.
