Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has announced that Neymar is fully fit and ready to play the entire 90 minutes in the Selecao’s final World Cup group stage clash against Scotland. The forward had missed Brazil’s opening games against Morocco and Haiti due to a calf injury, but Ancelotti confirmed that the Santos icon has now regained full fitness and is eager to make an impact on the tournament.

Neymar, who has been sidelined since joining the squad with a calf issue sustained at Santos, returned to full training earlier this week for the first time during the competition. Ancelotti indicated that the 34-year-old forward could either start or come off the bench against Scotland. Neymar will be keen to add to his tally of eight World Cup goals as Brazil aim to secure a place in the round of 32.

Speaking about the star’s condition, Ancelotti said, “He is available, he trained very well this week, he is fit and ready to play. We are very happy to have him back because he is a player of exceptional quality. He can play half the game or the full 90 minutes. He worked extremely hard and is in excellent spirits. His attitude has been very professional, and we are looking forward to having him on the pitch again. He brings experience and understanding, and he’s doing exceptionally well.”

Neymar’s return comes as a boost for Brazil, especially in the absence of Raphinha, who sustained a hamstring injury during the team’s 3-0 win over Haiti. It remains unclear when the Barcelona winger will be fit to return, but Ancelotti has additional attacking options in Rayan, Endrick, and Igor Thiago to call upon in the final third.

The Brazilian manager also acknowledged the challenge Scotland will pose, highlighting their organisation and key players. “It will be a tough match. Scotland are a strong side – disciplined, combative, and full of quality,” Ancelotti commented. “They have experienced players like Scott McTominay and John McGinn who can make things difficult. There are no easy games at the World Cup anymore. We are prepared for a challenging contest.”

Brazil can confirm their position at the top of Group C with a victory, and history favours them going into the fixture. Scotland have never beaten the South American giants in their four previous World Cup encounters, losing three of those meetings.