Ancelotti's Brazil await Scotland in Miami

In the final 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C match, Scotland face Brazil for the fifth time in World Cup history at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. Both aim to reach the last 32, and a draw would send both nations through. A Brazil win would leave Scotland dependent on results in other groups.

Brazil, under Carlo Ancelotti, recovered after a 1-1 opening draw with Morocco by beating Haiti 3-0. After three first-half goals, the Seleção slowed the tempo and sat top of the group on four points. But this Brazil is not seen as one of their strongest sides; injuries are stretching the squad. Raphinha will miss this game with a hamstring injury; Bournemouth's young talent Rayan could start in his place. Lucas Paquetá, after his influential display against Haiti, will continue to link defence and attack; Matheus Cunha, who scored twice, will operate as a fluid centre-forward. Neymar, long out of action, awaits his first minutes of the tournament from the bench.

For Scotland, there is a historic opportunity. Steve Clarke's side, after beating Haiti 1-0 in their opener, lost by the same score to Morocco and sit third. Even so, Scotland keep alive the chance to get out of the group at a major tournament for the first time in their history. Roared on by their Tartan Army support in Miami, Scotland, led by Scott McTominay and John McGinn, aim to throw everything at Brazil and make history. A first-ever World Cup win over Brazil would carry Scotland through as runners-up at least.

Sports Illustrated did not share a clear score prediction for this game, but did name both teams' probable XIs. The match is laden with World Cup heritage; though Scotland have so often been outmatched on this stage, this time they believe they have a fighting chance against Brazil. The two teams have met four times before at the World Cup, and Scotland have never won.

Probable XIs
Scotland (3-5-1-1): Gunn; Hanley, Hendry, Tierney; Patterson, Christie, Ferguson, McGinn, Robertson; McTominay; Adams
Brazil (4-4-2): Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Douglas Santos; Paquetá, Guimarães, Casemiro, Vinícius Junior; Rayan, Cunha

Source: Sports Illustrated
Image: Sports Illustrated