Brazil and Scotland will renew their historic World Cup rivalry on Wednesday in a decisive Group C encounter in Miami. This will be the fifth meeting between the nations on the biggest stage, making it one of the most played fixtures in tournament history.
Historic Context
While Brazil have faced Sweden seven times, including the 1958 final and 1994 semi-finals, and Argentina have met Germany or West Germany seven times (three in finals), the Selecao and Scotland have faced off four times at World Cups between 1974 and 1998, all in the group stage. Scotland have never advanced beyond the first round.
David Narey's iconic strike in Seville in 1982 stirred Brazil's Socrates and Zico to life, leading to a 4-1 comeback win. In 1974, Kenny Dalglish's Scotland held Brazil to a goalless draw but were eliminated on goal difference. A late Mueller goal gave Brazil a 1-0 victory in 1990, and in 1998, Scotland prevented Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Bebeto from scoring, only for Tom Boyd's own goal to decide the contest 2-1 in favour of the World Cup holders.
Scotland's Shot at History
Scotland are hoping to qualify for the knockout phase for the first time after a 1-0 win over Haiti and a 1-0 defeat against Morocco. A draw will almost certainly take them through as one of the best third-placed sides. "If there's a nation to play to get to the next round, we want to do it against these type of teams, so it's going to be a great spectacle," said defender Jack Hendry. Midfielder John McGinn added: "Scotland against Brazil in Miami to make some history is something you dream of."
Brazil's Focus
Brazil, record five-time World Cup winners, need a win to secure top spot in the group as they and Morocco both have four points. Barcelona forward Raphinha is out due to injury, but Neymar could make his return for the Selecao. The 34-year-old, Brazil's all-time record scorer, was called up by coach Carlo Ancelotti despite not having played since October 2023 due to injury. After another calf injury, he is now ready to play. "We saw the quality he has in training, we were speechless," said Gabriel Martinelli. "When you look at the shape he is in you can see that he is desperate to get out there."
Brazil's last meeting with Scotland was a friendly in 2011 in London, where Neymar scored twice on his third cap. Full-back Aaron Hickey remains a doubt for Scotland after missing the Morocco game.
