Brazil head into the final round of the World Cup 2026 group stage with mixed emotions. While Ancelotti is on the verge of welcoming Neymar back into the squad, there are growing concerns over Raphinha, who was forced off during Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti.

The clash against Scotland, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, in Miami, could mark Neymar’s first appearance at the tournament. The No. 10 has not featured since joining the squad due to a right calf injury, but he has made significant progress in his recovery and is preparing to rejoin full team training.

Ancelotti confirmed the positive update following Brazil’s win over Haiti. The Italian manager revealed that Neymar will complete an individual training session on Saturday before returning to group activities.

Since arriving in the United States, Neymar has been following a specific rehabilitation programme. The forward remained in New Jersey while the team travelled to Philadelphia to face Haiti, continuing his recovery work both at Brazil’s team hotel and at the New York Red Bulls training facility.

The potential return of Brazil’s biggest star comes at a crucial moment. After opening the tournament with a draw and then producing an impressive victory over Haiti, Brazil are looking to secure qualification for the knockout rounds and build momentum heading into the latter stages of the competition.

READ MORE: Vinícius Júnior lights up Brazil’s 3-0 win with goal, assist and an 8.1 Sofascore Rating

Raphinha concern grows after fresh muscle injury

While Neymar’s recovery is encouraging news for Brazil supporters, the outlook surrounding Raphinha is far less positive.

The Barcelona winger felt discomfort in his right hamstring during the first half against Haiti and was replaced by Rayan. The injury occurred during the run that led to Brazil’s second goal of the match.

Brazil’s medical staff are awaiting the results of imaging tests to determine the severity of the injury. There is particular concern internally because it marks the fourth hamstring-related issue Raphinha has suffered over the past 12 months.

Após a partida, Vinícius Júnior admitiu a apreensão do elenco com a situação do companheiro.

Speaking after the match, Vinícius Júnior admitted the squad was worried about their teammate’s condition.

Brazil unable to replace Raphinha

Should the scans confirm a serious injury and force Raphinha out of the World Cup, Brazil would face an additional problem.

Under FIFA regulations, the deadline to replace outfield players expired 24 hours before each team’s opening match of the tournament.

In practical terms, that means Brazil would be unable to call up a replacement. The only exception applies to goalkeepers, provided the team maintains three available players in that position throughout the competition.

As things stand, the match against Scotland could see a changing of the guard. Neymar may finally take centre stage just as one of Brazil’s key attacking players faces the possibility of an early World Cup exit.

You can follow Neymar, Raphinha and every Brazil player throughout the tournament with detailed stats and performance data on Sofascore.