Ancelotti gives Brazil a warning in the last match of the 2026 World Cup Group against Scotland

JAKARTA - Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has warned his players to beware of a highly-qualified and mentally tough Scotland ahead of the crucial 2026 World Cup Group C match on Thursday, June 25, 2026, morning WIB, in Miami.

A draw will almost certainly ensure Scotland qualify from the group stage. In fact, a defeat could be enough, depending on the results in the other group.

Their obstacle is five-time champions Brazil, coached by Ancelotti - who has won a record five Champions League titles as a coach.

The Italian coach did not take the match lightly.

"It's going to be a tough game. Scotland have quality, they are fighters, they are well organised."

"They have good players, (Scott) McTominay, (John) McGinn who are experienced players. The easy games in the World Cup are long over. We are ready to play a difficult match," said Ancelotti.

Scotland have faced Brazil in finals in 1974, 1982, 1990 and 1998 when they failed to beat the South American side, but will be backed by the Tartan Army in Florida.

The match against Scotland may also be Neymar's first appearance at the 2026 World Cup, who has not yet appeared so far in the final round due to calf problems.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward trained fully with Brazil this week for the first time since being selected for the team.

"He's available, he's training very well this week, he's fit and able and ready to play. We're very happy he's back, he's a high-quality player."

"He can play half-time or for 90 minutes. He's very good, he works very hard so he's ready. His attitude is very good, his spirit is very good."

"He's a good player and teammate, he's very serious and we want to play him again soon. He brings experience and knowledge, he plays very well," Ancelotti said of Neymar's condition.

One player who will miss out is Barcelona forward Raphinha, who suffered a hamstring injury in Brazil's 3-0 win over Haiti.

Ancelotti did not want to reveal who would replace him. He now has Rayan, Endrick, and Igor Thiago available.