Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti expects star forward Neymar to be available for the Selecao’s final World Cup Group C match against Scotland after continuing his recovery from a calf injury.
The 34-year-old has not played since featuring for Santos FC on May 17 and missed Brazil’s opening two matches of the tournament. However, Ancelotti revealed Neymar’s return is now close, with the forward set to rejoin full team training on Monday.
“Neymar will be training tomorrow individually, and on Monday, he’s going to be training with the rest of the team,” Ancelotti said after Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti.
“He will be available for the match against Scotland.”
Brazil head into Wednesday’s clash in Miami Gardens sitting top of Group C on four points, level with Morocco but ahead on goal difference. A win or draw against Scotland would be enough to secure a place in the Round of 32.
Ancelotti also praised striker Matheus Cunha after his two-goal performance against Haiti. The forward was handed a starting role in place of Igor Thiago and repaid his coach’s faith with a first-half brace.
While Ancelotti stopped short of confirming Cunha would keep his place against Scotland, he admitted the striker’s display provided another attacking option for Brazil.
“I think that Matheus’ position was a good position for creating problems to the defence,” Ancelotti said.
“It can be an option. We discussed this yesterday. I don’t want a clear identity. Maybe we will change this on the next match.”
Despite Scotland facing possible elimination, Ancelotti insisted Brazil’s focus remains on improving their own performances rather than worrying about opponents’ circumstances.
“We don’t think about knocking out. We think about playing well and improving,” he said. “If we can reach first position in the group, that would be important for the future.”
