Neymar returns to Brazil squad after 2-year-9-month absence, provides assist in friendly vs Scotland

Source: L'Équipe | Hupu Football News

The Moment Everyone Was Waiting For

Whether at the stadium or in front of a television screen, everyone knew this moment would come—and eagerly awaited it. Even the Scottish fans were no exception.

The match had passed the hour mark, with Brazil leading 3–0, and the atmosphere had grown slightly dull. Then, increasingly loud chants of "Neymar, Neymar, Neymar" erupted from the stands at the Miami stadium. Ancelotti glanced several times at his assistants on the bench before finally giving the order to call in the No. 10 player, who was warming up near the corner flag amid the flash of smartphone cameras.

A Long-Awaited Return

When he finally stepped onto the pitch to replace Cunha, the match was already in the 76th minute. Amid the cheers of the entire crowd, Neymar first made the sign of the cross over his chest, then looked up to the sky.

He was likely reflecting on the long wait—two years and nine months without wearing the "Samba Squad" jersey. He is the team's all-time top scorer, surpassing Pelé (79 goals in 129 matches). He must have also recalled the dark times after tearing his cruciate ligament on October 17, 2023, against Uruguay, and the agony of dashed hopes for his return—until he was finally named in Ancelotti's 26-man squad at the last minute this May.

Performance on the Pitch

The 34-year-old forward, previously troubled by a calf injury, had a rocky start in his World Cup debut after recovery. He showed a poor first touch and lost possession in the 77th minute. But soon after, he lit up the game with a brilliant through ball, assisting Vinícius Jr. for a one-on-one chance (79th minute), though the Real Madrid winger squandered the opportunity.

Teammate's Praise

"Neymar's return comes at a crucial moment for us; he is one of the best players in the world. The coach made the right choice; he always makes the best decisions for the team he coaches. He adapts well to the players' characteristics and understands our tactics well." — A star teammate

Ancelotti's Tactical Use of Neymar

Regarding Neymar's usage, Ancelotti seems inclined to position him as a central playmaker—his current role at Santos—sparing him from excessive defensive duties. In the match against Scotland:

• He played as a false nine but often dropped deep to receive the ball
• He drifted left to link up with Vinícius Jr.
• His corner kicks were of high quality, one nearly setting up Gabriel for a goal (86th minute)
• He attempted a powerful shot from outside the box, which was calmly saved by goalkeeper Gunn (90th minute)

In just twenty minutes, he touched the ball 24 times, showing high involvement. Despite losing possession nine times due to risky plays, he delivered four key passes before shots—exactly where he is expected to make an impact.

Emotional Aftermath

After the final whistle, he first helped several Scottish players who had collapsed on the ground. Then, unable to contain his emotions, he covered his face and wept before approaching his wife and child, who had come onto the field to comfort him.

Later in the mixed zone, wearing a reversed baseball cap, he shyly told gathered reporters:

"I'm really, very happy; we played a great match. I want to thank all Brazilians for their kindness and support. This is an unforgettable moment."

What's Next

Next Monday, he will travel with the team to Houston, Texas, for the 32-team tournament, where the competition will enter its truly critical phase.

Original source: L'Équipe Posted in Shanghai | Reads: 276