Los Angeles, Jun 24 (V7N) – Five-time world champions Brazil will look to secure top spot in their FIFA World Cup group when they face Scotland, with the return of star forward Neymar providing a major boost for the Seleção.

Brazil head into the crucial fixture full of confidence following an impressive victory over Haiti. The team's morale has been further lifted by Neymar's return to full training after a lengthy injury layoff. Although the veteran forward has completed training sessions with the squad, he is not expected to start the match.

However, Brazil have also suffered a setback ahead of the encounter, with winger Raphinha ruled out through injury. His absence is expected to reduce Brazil's attacking options as head coach Carlo Ancelotti prepares his lineup.

In Neymar's likely absence from the starting eleven, in-form Vinícius Júnior is expected to lead the attack alongside Matheus Cunha, who scored twice in Brazil's previous match against Haiti. Lucas Paquetá and Rayan are likely to provide support from the flanks.

Brazil's midfield is expected to be anchored by the experienced duo of Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães, while captain Marquinhos and Gabriel are set to form the central defensive partnership. Douglas Santos is likely to start at left-back, with Danilo occupying the right-back position.

Ancelotti is expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation as Brazil seek another victory.

The South American giants currently sit at the top of their group with four points from two matches, having recorded one win and one draw. A victory over Scotland would strengthen their position and ensure qualification as group winners.

Speaking ahead of the match, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed confidence in his team's preparations.

"I think we need to repeat what we did in the first half against Haiti. We must maintain intensity, be precise with the ball and avoid losing possession. The team is improving in training and I am confident of a good result. Neymar is also ready to play. He has trained well this week and prepared properly for the match," Ancelotti said.

Scotland, meanwhile, enter the contest under pressure after following up an opening victory over Haiti with a defeat against Morocco. The European side need a positive result to strengthen their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

The Scots are expected to adopt a disciplined defensive approach and rely on counterattacks, with midfielders Scott McTominay and John McGinn seen as key figures in their game plan.

Historically, Brazil have enjoyed success against Scotland. The Seleção defeated the Scots 2-1 in their opening match of the 1998 FIFA World Cup and later recorded a 2-0 victory in an international friendly in 2011.

With qualification and group supremacy at stake, the encounter promises to be one of the most closely watched matches of the group stage.

END/SMA/AJ