FIFA World Cup 2026 : Brazil vs Scotland Live, Preview and Lineups

FIFA World Cup 2026: Scotland vs Brazil Preview, Team News & Prediction

Scotland Target Historic Result Against Brazil

Scotland face one of the toughest challenges in international football when they take on five-time world champions Brazil National Football Team in their final Group C match at the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Wednesday.

Steve Clarke's side remain in contention for a place in the knockout stages and know that a positive result against the Selecao could be enough to secure qualification. Brazil, meanwhile, are aiming to finish top of the group as they continue their pursuit of a sixth World Cup title.

Match Preview

Scotland opened their World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Haiti National Football Team before suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat against Morocco National Football Team in their second group fixture.

Despite the setback, the Scots remain in a strong position to challenge for a place in the last 32. A victory over Brazil would guarantee qualification, while a draw could also be enough depending on results elsewhere in Group C.

However, history favors Brazil. Scotland have never beaten the South Americans, recording two draws and six defeats in eight previous meetings. Their World Cup record against Brazil is equally challenging, with all three previous encounters ending in defeat.

Brazil enter the contest in excellent form following a convincing 3-0 win over Haiti. After being held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their opening match, Carlo Ancelotti's side responded impressively thanks to a brace from Matheus Cunha and a goal from Vinicius Junior.

That result placed Brazil in a commanding position at the top of Group C, with victory here ensuring first place regardless of other outcomes.

While Brazil are among the leading contenders to lift the trophy, they will be cautious about overlooking Scotland, who have already shown resilience and defensive organization throughout the tournament.

Team News

Scotland have a number of fitness concerns ahead of this crucial fixture. Defenders and midfielders Scott McKenna, Aaron Hickey, and Lewis Ferguson have all missed recent training sessions, although there remains optimism that they could be available for selection.

Manager Steve Clarke is expected to deploy a disciplined and compact system designed to limit Brazil's attacking opportunities. Midfield leaders John McGinn and Scott McTominay will be key figures as Scotland look to create chances for striker Che Adams.

Brazil will be without winger Raphinha, who has been ruled out with a hamstring injury sustained during the victory over Haiti. Young attacker Rayan is expected to step into the starting lineup.

There is also positive news for Brazil, with Neymar returning to fitness and available for selection. However, the experienced forward is expected to begin the match on the bench, while Lucas Paqueta is likely to operate behind Vinicius Junior and Matheus Cunha.

Players to Watch

Scott McTominay (Scotland)

The Scotland midfielder remains one of the team's most influential players. His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch could be vital if the Scots are to produce an upset.

Vinicius Junior (Brazil)

The Brazilian star looked dangerous in the win over Haiti and will once again be Brazil's primary attacking threat. His pace and creativity could prove decisive against Scotland's defense.

Prediction

Scotland have shown determination and defensive discipline throughout the tournament and should make life difficult for Brazil. However, the Selecao possess superior depth, quality, and experience across the pitch.

Predicted Score: Scotland 0-2 Brazil

Brazil's attacking talent is expected to make the difference, although Scotland are likely to remain competitive and organized throughout the contest.

RD9 Sports Prediction: Brazil to win 2-0 and secure top spot in Group C.