Vinicius Junior double sends Brazil past Scotland into World Cup last 32

Vinicius Junior continued his impressive World Cup form by scoring twice as Brazil cruised to a 3-0 victory over Scotland in Miami on Wednesday, sealing top spot in Group C and progression to the last 32.

The Real Madrid star opened the scoring in the seventh minute after a defensive error by Scott McKenna, and headed in another in first-half stoppage time. Matheus Cunha added the third in the 60th minute from a Bruno Guimaraes assist.

With four goals in three group matches, Vinicius became the first Brazilian to score in every group game since Ronaldo and Rivaldo in 2002. He is level with Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe in the golden boot race, one behind Lionel Messi.

Neymar made his long-awaited return to international football, coming on as a substitute in the 76th minute to a huge cheer. It was his first appearance for Brazil since October 2023.

Brazil finished with seven points, ahead of Morocco on goal difference after Morocco beat Haiti 4-2. The Selecao will face the runner-up of Group F (Netherlands, Japan, or Sweden) in Houston on June 29.

Scotland, with three points and a goal difference of -3, must wait to see if they qualify as one of the eight best third-placed teams. The defeat extended Scotland's history of early exits at major tournaments.