Dominant Brazil cruise past Scotland to top Group C

Brazil produced a dominant display in Miami as they defeated Scotland 3-0 in their final Group C match, with Vinicius Junior scoring twice and Matheus Cunha adding another goal.

With the win, Brazil finished as Group C champions, while Morocco, who earned a hard fought 4-2 win over Haiti, finished as group runners-up.

Both Brazil and Morocco finished with seven points each but the South American topped the group owing to a better goal difference.

Scotland still have hopes of qualifying for the knockouts as one of the eight best ranked third teams, while Haiti have been eliminated after losing all three of their matches.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side controlled the match from the start and punished Scotland’s defensive mistakes with ruthless finishing.

Brazil’s attacking trio of Vinicius, Matheus Cunha and Rayan caused constant problems.

The five-time world champions took the lead in the seventh minute after Scotland lost possession in a dangerous area.

Scott McKenna’s mistake allowed Rayan to block the pass, and Vinicius collected the loose ball before calmly beating Angus Gunn.

Brazil continued to threaten after taking control, with Vinicius looking sharp and creating chances throughout the first half.

The forward briefly thought he had scored a second goal, but VAR ruled it out for a foul on Jack Hendry.

The Brazilian pressure finally paid off again just before halftime. Bruno Guimaraes delivered an excellent cross, and Vinicius headed home after Gunn failed to claim the ball.

Vinicius’ second goal gave Brazil a comfortable advantage at the break and they continued to dominate possession and create opportunities in the second half as well.

Vinicius came close to completing his hat-trick early in the second half, but Gunn made several saves to keep Scotland in the contest.

Brazil eventually extended their lead in the 60th minute through Cunha. Guimaraes powered past defenders before setting up the forward, who executed a sharp finish.

The third goal ended any realistic Scottish comeback hopes and allowed Brazil to control the final stages with confidence.

The crowd then welcomed Neymar, who returned in Selecao colours after almost three-and-a-half-years, in the second half, replacing Cunha.

Neymar looked comfortable despite his limited minutes and created some chances as Brazil searched for further goals.

Brazil continued pushing until the final whistle, with Vinicius missing chances to complete his hat-trick and Alisson denying Scotland late on.

Brazil will now face the runners-up of Group F in Round of 32.

Currently, Japan are holding the second position in Group F.