World Cup: Ancelotti hails Vinicius as Brazil beat Scotland 3–0

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has praised forward Vinicius Junior as “one of the best players in the world” after the Real Madrid star delivered another standout performance in Brazil’s commanding 3–0 victory over Scotland at the FIFA World Cup.

The victory, secured on Wednesday in Miami, ensured Brazil progressed into the Round of 32 as winners of Group C, with Vinicius scoring twice in the opening half to continue his impressive tournament run.

Speaking after the match, Ancelotti lauded the 25-year-old’s consistency and impact for the national team.

“I had no doubts about how he would be coming into this World Cup,” Ancelotti said.

“For him, it is an honour to play for the national team. He is playing well and he even scored a header, which is very rare for him.

“I knew all about what Vini could do. He is one of the best players in the world.”

The Italian tactician, who previously coached Vinicius for four seasons at Real Madrid, said the winger’s form had never been in doubt.

Vinicius continues golden boot charge

Vinicius opened his World Cup account in Brazil’s 1–1 draw against Morocco before scoring again in the Seleção’s 3–0 victory over Haiti.

His latest brace now takes his tally to four goals in three matches, placing him level with Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland in the race for the Golden Boot, behind only Lionel Messi.

The Brazilian forward also entered an exclusive list of football greats.

He became the first Brazilian player to score in all three World Cup group-stage matches since Ronaldo and Rivaldo achieved the feat in 2002.

Before them, only Jairzinho in 1970 and Romario in 1994 accomplished the same feat, years in which Brazil went on to lift the trophy.

Reacting to his performance, Vinicius said individual records remain secondary to team success.

“I always say I am not that bothered about numbers. I am not used to scoring so many goals, but the coach has moved me into a position to which I have adapted well, and now I am scoring and helping the team.”

“Hopefully I can keep going to the final. I am very happy with the work being done by the team. If everyone is playing well, the ball will arrive in attacking areas and we will have chances to score goals.”

Neymar returns as Brazil build momentum

Brazil’s third goal came through Matheus Cunha before veteran forward Neymar made his long-awaited return to international football.

The substitute appearance marked Neymar’s first outing for Brazil since October 2023.

Mr Ancelotti praised the attacker’s professionalism and commitment during recovery.

“He deserved to come on. He has worked hard and trained hard to recover fitness. He has done it very professionally.

“He has the quality to help the team at this World Cup and he played well in the few minutes he was on.

“He needs no motivation to play for Brazil. He is 34 but he has the same passion for football as a kid.”

Brazil eye knockout success

Brazil now travel to Houston for their Round of 32 clash next Monday against the runners-up in Group F, with either the Netherlands, Japan or Sweden waiting.

Mr Ancelotti said his side has continued to improve after a slow start to the tournament.

“Compared to the first game we are making fewer errors, playing with more rhythm, and we are more clinical up front.

“Now we are really playing as a team, and that was the aim. We are not perfect, we have things to improve on.

“But I am very happy because we have got better already and we are solid now. It’s really important to be solid in the knockout rounds.”