Neymar came off the bench to make his highly anticipated first appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, featuring in Brazil’s commanding 3-0 victory over Scotland on Wednesday in their final Group C match.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti had stated before the game that Neymar was fully fit and available. The Santos forward entered the pitch at Hard Rock Stadium in the 76th minute, receiving a thunderous ovation from the massive contingent of Seleção fans. Brazil was already leading 3-0 when Neymar replaced Matheus Cunha, as the Seleção looked to comfortably see out the match and clinch the top spot in Group C ahead of Morocco.
End of a 980-Day Exile
Neymar’s return comes after a recent right calf injury that had sidelined him for over a month. However, his long-term absence from the national team spans much further. His last official appearance for Brazil was back in October 2023 during the South American World Cup Qualifiers, where he suffered a devastating torn ACL.
Now, exactly 980 days later, Neymar is back representing the Samba Kings, hoping to lead his nation to the coveted World Cup trophy that has eluded Brazil for 24 years.
World Cup Career Milestone
At 34 years old, this substitution marked Neymar’s 14th career World Cup match. He is currently participating in his fourth consecutive tournament, having previously featured in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions. Neymar remains Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer, with an incredible 79 goals in 129 international appearances.
