Ancelotti's quest to end Brazil's 24-year wait for World Cup glory

In Miami, after a delay that pushed the event from 19:15 to after 21:00 local time, Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti finally faced hundreds of journalists to discuss the team's World Cup meeting with Scotland. However, Brazilian reporters were more interested in Neymar's comeback, Vinicius Jr's brilliance, and Ancelotti's project to end the nation's 24-year wait for a World Cup title. The last time Brazil endured such a barren run, they won the tournament at USA '94.

Neymar's return

Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, has not played for the national team since October 2023 and missed the opening Group C game against Morocco due to injury. His inclusion in the squad ahead of Chelsea's Joao Pedro sparked debate. Ancelotti stated: "He is available. He trained very well this week. He is fit and ready to play. We are very happy. He is a high-quality player. He can play half-time or the whole 90 minutes. His attitude is very good and he is in good spirits."

Vinicius the main man

While Neymar's return is notable, Ancelotti hinted that Vinicius Jr could be the catalyst for Brazil's success. The Real Madrid star has scored two goals in two games, including a spectacular equaliser when Brazil trailed 1-0 against Morocco. Ancelotti, who coached Vinicius at Real Madrid before taking over Brazil in 2025, said: "He's playing very well. We need to use him even though we have other fantastic players. We have experience, quality and legs. I'm completely satisfied in all of them."

Scotland challenge

Ancelotti, the most decorated manager in Champions League history with five titles and the only coach to win in all top five European leagues, showed respect for Scotland, despite the Scots managing only two shots on target in two group games. "It will be a difficult game, as usual. Scotland has quality, they are fighters, they play really well organised. They have really good players like Scott McTominay and John McGinn. They play 4-4-2 with long balls and crosses. We need to control the match in that sense."