Brazil breezed into the World Cup knockout stages as Group C winners, defeating Scotland 3-0 on Wednesday. The dominant performance keeps the five-time champions on course for their first world title since 2002.
Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior led the charge, capitalizing on a Scottish defensive error to open the scoring in the seventh minute. He doubled the lead just before halftime with a close-range header, bringing his tournament tally to four goals. Matheus Cunha sealed the victory on the hour mark.
The match also featured the highly anticipated return of Neymar. Sidelined by a calf injury for the opening two matches, Brazil's all-time leading scorer came on as a 76th-minute substitute to a roaring crowd at Hard Rock Stadium.
"We are working to play the best that we can," said Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti. "But the goal is to win. If we win the World Cup, we played well."
The result sends Brazil to Houston for the Round of 16, where they will face the Netherlands, Japan or Sweden. Meanwhile, Morocco advanced as the group runner-up following a 4-2 victory over Haiti.
For Scotland, making their first World Cup appearance since 1998, the loss leaves their tournament hopes hanging by a thread. After an error-prone display, the Tartan Army must now wait to see if they progress as one of the best third-placed teams.
"We knew they were a top side," Scottish defender Nathan Patterson admitted. "Giving them easy goals is not what you need."
