Neymar will start on the bench for Brazil’s Group C finale against Scotland on Wednesday at Miami Stadium.

Neymar arrived with Brazil and is available to make his debut at this year’s tournament after missing the first two matches. He was one of the final players to get off Brazil’s bus Wednesday afternoon, flashing a thumbs-up, giving a wave and slapping hands with a few well-wishers as he made his way inside the stadium and toward the team’s locker room.

“He is available. He trained very well this week,” Ancelotti said Tuesday, without confirming that Neymar would take the field against Scotland. “He is fit and able, ready to play. We are very happy that he is back. He is a high-quality player.”

Neymar has been dealing with a right calf injury, one that has sidelined him from all matches for more than a month. He went through a training session with Brazil on Sunday, prompting the belief that he could finally be set to play.

Neymar is Brazil’s career scoring leader with 79 goals in 129 international appearances. The 34-year-old forward appeared in each of the past three World Cups for Brazil, scoring eight goals.

His role — and whether he deserves to be on this team at all — has been a major talking point among Brazil’s passionate fans for some time. Neymar has struggled since returning from tearing the ACL in his left knee in October 2023 in a World Cup qualifier, and has four goals in eight matches for his Brazilian club Santos this season.

Reporting by The Associated Press.

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Mexico fans had to wait a little longer than expected, but Guillermo ‘Memo’ Ochoa made his World Cup appearance in Wednesday’s 3-0 win against Czechia.

Having already clinched its spot in the World Cup knockout rounds after two wins over South Africa and South Korea, the question was whether the legendary keeper would get playing time for El Tri. 

The 40-year-old keeper made his grand entry in the second half, coming in for starter Raul Rangel as the fans at Mexico City Stadium cheered “Memo” onto the pitch. 

Ochoa has already made history as being the first goalkeeper to participate in six World Cup editions and joins Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as the only three men’s players to take part in that many tournaments. An unused substitute in 2006 and 2010, Ochoa has now played in four World Cup tournaments – in 2014, 2018, 2022 and now 2026.

Aguirre – in his third stint as Mexico’s manager – had defended his decision to include Ochoa in Mexico’s 26-man squad, deflecting opinions that it was only for sentimental reasons.

“I have always said since I returned that whoever is here, is here on ⁠their ​own merit,” Aguirre said before the Czechia game.

Ochoa is one of the most decorated players in the history of Mexican soccer, having made 154 appearances. He was recalled to the national team after an injury to presumptive starter Luis Malagón in March.

Ochoa currently plays for AEL Limassol in Cyprus, his latest stint at a European club that has seen him play in Spain, France and Italy. He has also played for Club América in Liga MX. 

For Mexico, he has won six CONCACAF Gold Cups and helped the Olympic team win bronze in 2004 and 2021.

Czechia vs Mexico Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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The final whistle brought disappointment, but it also delivered history. Despite a 2-1 loss to Switzerland on Wednesday afternoon, Canada, under coach Jesse Marsch, secured its first-ever trip to the FIFA World Cup knockout stage.

Marsch has transformed Canada from a nation primarily known for hockey into a team that believes in itself. That belief has been evident throughout the tournament as Canada looks to make an impact on the World Cup stage.

“One thing I know about our team is we have heart, and we won’t stop,” Marsch said. “We’re so committed to the game and to each other, so that part I’m really proud of. We have to now take that performance and make sure we apply that from the start when we go down to LA.”

Switzerland is one of the most complete teams in this year’s tournament, but that didn’t shake Marsch’s belief in his squad. His ambitions extend beyond a single match, as he believes this Canadian team is capable of something special.

“We knew that this team [Switzerland] was more established and the goals are bigger than just one goal, one point or one win,” Marsch said. “We want to really make a run at it because we believe in our group.”

Marsch said injuries played a role in Wednesday’s loss, saying that Canada has struggled to get players healthy throughout the tournament. Still, he added that the team expects captain and star player Alphonso Davies to return for its next match.

“One of the things that’s been a little bit unlucky is trying to get guys healthy again,” Marsch said. “Alphonso Davies will be ready to go next game, so that’s a good sign. Everyone here puts so much into it, and they care so much about this program.”

Adding Davies back to the lineup will be key for a Canada team set to face one of Group A’s qualifiers: South Korea, Czechia or South Africa. Canada will need a full-strength squad if it hopes to continue its World Cup run.

“It’s an honor to coach this national team,” Marsch said. “We’re going to go down to LA and make sure that we put our best performance forward.”

Switzerland vs Canada Extended Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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There might not be anything to play for in terms of Group D standings when the USA takes on Türkiye on Thursday — but that doesn’t mean this one is meaningless in terms of reps and lessons. That said, it’s a juggling act for Mauricio Pochettino to keep his guys fresh but not take any unnecessary risks.

If I were Poch, I’d be hesitant to play Christian Pulisic in this game. I get the idea of wanting to keep him sharp, but there’s more to lose than there is to gain. These players are already fit, so playing 90 minutes wouldn’t be a concern.

Instead, I expect we’ll see a rotated United States team with players starting who will be hopeful of making a positive impact in their first extended action of the tournament.

Here’s what I think we’ll see from the USA and Türkiye on Thursday night in Los Angeles.

What To Expect From The USA

I expect the USA to heavily rotate here. The guys who are one yellow card away from a suspension or carrying minor knocks are the ones who I especially do not expect to play.

You may see some of the other players who have been active so far in this tournament start before getting subbed off, before they play the entire 90 minutes. I’d expect to see guys who start but haven’t gotten much action in the tournament play close to the entire game.

What I’m not expecting is to see a less competitive United States team. The guys who haven’t gotten many minutes but will play are likely to want it even more than the ones who have been. This is their chance to get a start at the World Cup, and it’s their opportunity to show that they’re capable of stepping up during the knockout stage.

That will especially be the case in attack. We’ve seen early goals against Paraguay and Australia, so most of the USA’s minutes have been playing with a lead. If that doesn’t happen again and attacking changes need to be made in the knockout stage, I want to see who can step up.

We saw Ricardo Pepi get a start in place of Pulisic against Australia, but who will be the first name(s) off the bench when the USA might need a goal later in the tournament? Will it be Tim Weah or Alex Zendejas? Haji Wright? Brenden Aaronson? We don’t know yet.

The one attacking player who has made an impact is Gio Reyna, who scored the fourth goal against Paraguay after coming on in the 82nd minute.

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What I’m most curious to see with Gio is how he is deployed. I thought he was going to start on the left wing in place of Pulisic against Australia, but Mauricio Pochettino opted for a second striker with Pepi instead.

Assuming Gio starts this game, is he on the wing? Is he playing as an “8” in more of a central role in midfield?

This will be a big opportunity for Reyna to show why he should be the go-to guy off the bench. I want to see him grind on both ends of the pitch and show why he thinks he should be starting.

What To Expect From Türkiye

Türkiye may be the most unlucky team in the World Cup and will feel hard done by entering this game. Of all the teams that are at the bottom of their group, especially the ones that have already been eliminated, the Turks are probably the most talented.

Türkiye had 62 shots in its first two games without scoring a goal. Against Australia in the opener, Türkiye faced a side that defended extremely well and happened to get an early goal. After that, the Aussies were able to sit back and defend in a low block that was really well-executed.

Then, against Paraguay, it was an even earlier goal that put Türkiye behind. Then, the Turks played against 10 men for 50 minutes but still couldn’t score.

When you look at Türkiye’s xGs (expected goals) and total number of shots, you’d be shocked that it lost both matches and didn’t even get a point from either. But, in reality, this team is going home after this game regardless of the result.

Conceding early has especially been tough for Türkiye. It makes for a weird game because the Turks have been in control, so there’s initially a sense of confidence that the goal will come. Then, as the game goes on, it gets more and more frustrating.

Arda Güler has been left frustrated by Türkiye’s lack of goals at this tournament. (Ercin Erturk/Anadolu via Getty Images)

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Güler has a great ability to find the final pass or shoot effectively from distance. The surprising thing so far in this tournament is that he has not been efficient with either of those skills. Something has just been a little off.

You can tell when Güler gets on the ball, though, that he’s the player trying to make things happen. He gets on the ball, and the rest of the team perks up.

The other key attacker for Türkiye is winger Kenan Yildiz, who came on at halftime against Australia and played all 90 minutes against Paraguay. He’s a different type of player from Güler, one who thrives in one-on-one situations.

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As the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup proceeds, teams will secure their spot in the knockout stage, which begins on June 28 and wraps up with the World Cup final on July 19.

The field of 48 will be whittled down to 32, and then the titular knockouts will begin, with extra time and penalty shootouts occurring as needed to determine a winner. Here are the teams that have managed to punch a ticket to the knockout stage of the World Cup so far.

South Africa Advances

South Africa’s Group Stage Results

June 11: South Africa 0-2 Mexico
June 18: South Africa 1-1 Czechia
June 24: South Africa 1-0 South Korea

Bosnia and Herzegovina Advances

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Group Stage Results

June 12: Bosnia and Herzegovina 1-1 Canada
June 18: Bosnia and Herzegovina 1-4 Switzerland
June 24: Bosnia and Herzegovina 3-1 Qatar

Brazil Advances, Wins Group C

Brazil’s Group Stage Results

June 13: Brazil 1-1 Morocco
June 19: Brazil 3-0 Haiti
June 24: Brazil 3-0 Scotland

Morocco Advances

Morocco’s Group Stage Results

June 13: Morocco 1-1 Brazil
June 19: Morocco 1-0 Scotland
June 24: Morocco 4-2 Haiti

Canada Advances

Canada’s Group Stage Results

June 12: Canada 1-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina
June 18: Canada 6-0 Qatar
June 24: Canada 1-2 Switzerland

Switzerland Advances, Wins Group B

Swizerland’s Group Stage Results

June 13: Switzerland 1-1 Qatar
June 18: Switzerland 4-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina
June 24: Switzerland 2-1 Canada

Colombia Advances

Colombia’s Group Stage Results

June 17: Colombia 3-1 Uzbekistan
June 23: Colombia 1-0 DR Congo
June 27: Colombia vs. Portugal — Miami Stadium (7:30 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

Haaland, Norway Advance

Norway’s Group Stage Results

June 16: Norway 4-1 Iraq
June 22: Norway 3-2 Senegal
June 26: Norway vs. France — Boston Stadium (3 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

Mbappé, France Advance

France’s Group Stage Results

June 16: France 3-1 Senegal
June 22: France 3-0 Iraq
June 26: France vs. Norway — Boston Stadium (3 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

Messi, Argentina Win Group J

Argentina’s Group Stage Results

June 16: Argentina 3-0 Algeria
June 22: Argentina 2-0 Austria
June 27: Argentina vs Jordan — Dallas Stadium (10 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

Germany Advances, Wins Group E

Germany’s Group Stage Results

June 14: Germany 7-1 Curaçao
June 20: Germany 2-1 Ivory Coast
June 25: Germany vs. Ecuador — New York New Jersey Stadium (4 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

USA Advances, Wins Group D

USA’s Group Stage Results

June 12: USA 4-1 Paraguay
June 19: USA 2-0 Australia
June 25: USA vs Türkiye– Los Angeles Stadium (10 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

Mexico Advances, Wins Group A

Mexico’s Group Stage Results

June 11: Mexico 2-0 South Africa
June 18: Mexico 1-0 South Korea
June 24: Mexico vs Czechia — Mexico City Stadium (9 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

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The U.S. men’s national team became the second nation to secure a spot in the round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup — and it has captured first place in Group D.

Following its 2-0 victory over Australia, the USA improved to 2-0-0 in Group D play. And while it clinched a spot in the knockout round with its win, the USA was able to win Group D thanks to Paraguay’s victory over Türkiye on Friday night. It marks the first time since 2010 that the USA has won its group at the World Cup. 

As we’re in the midst of each nation’s group-stage finale, here is a closer look at the World Cup bracket and scenarios. 

JUMP TO:

Group A | Group B | Group C | Group D
Group E | Group F | Group G | Group H
Group I | Group J | Group K | Group L
Third-Place Rankings
Round of 32 Projections

(All records are win-draw-loss)

Mexico won to get to a 3-0-0 record, but the shocker came from South Africa’s win over South Korea. The result gave Bafana Bafana the second-place berth in the group, while South Korea now has to wait until Saturday to see if it will make it through to the round of 32.

Mexico WINS Group A | Javier Hernández REACTS to Mexico advancing to round of 32

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Switzerland advanced to the round of 32 as the winner of Group B with a 2-1 win over Canada on Wednesday at BC Place Vancouver. Canada advanced as the runner-up with four points. Bosnia and Herzegovina — which, after a 3-1 win against Qatar, also ended group play with four points but trailed Canada in goal difference — is in a strong position to advance to the knockout stage as one of the top-eight third-place teams.

Brazil and Morocco both ended group play with seven points, but it was Brazil that advanced to the round of 32 as the winners of Group C due to goal difference. Brazil scored three goals against Scotland while only conceding one goal throughout the entire group stage. Morocco scored four against Haiti but conceded two.

Scotland was eliminated from the tournament after failing to score a goal against Brazil. Haiti had already been eliminated from advancing entering its final match day.

The USA has won Group D, clinching first place with its 2-0 win over Australia and Paraguay’s 1-0 win over Türkiye on Friday. The Americans have a match against Türkiye, who has already been eliminated, before playing in the round of 32 on July 1. 

Australia and Paraguay will battle for second place in the Group D finale on Thursday, with the Australians holding the edge due to goal differential.

United States vs Australia Highlights

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Germany won the group and is through to the Round of 32 with its win over the Ivory Coast on Saturday in Toronto. Super-sub Denis Undav scored twice, including the winner in stoppage time, to seal the Germans’ spot in the knockout rounds.

Ivory Coast will need to get a result in its final match against Curaçao, which earned its first ever World Cup point in a scoreless draw with Ecuador thanks to Eloy Room’s goalkeeping heroics. Ecuador will face Germany in its final match of group play. 

Germany vs Ivory Coast Extended Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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The Netherlands and Japan, who played last week to a 2-2 draw, are the top two teams in the group. The Dutch handled Sweden 5-1 in its second group stage game, while Japan beat Tunisia 4-0. Sweden is in third place after the loss to the Netherlands, and will now take on Japan in the group stage finale. The Dutch will wrap up the group stage against Tunisia, who cannot advance following losses to Sweden and Japan. 

Netherlands vs Sweden Extended Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Belgium and Iran currently hold two points, but Egypt is in control after its win over New Zealand. Belgium faces New Zealand on this group’s final match day and will need a win to feel comfortable with its chances of advancing to the round of 32.

New Zealand vs Egypt Extended Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Spain made a statement on Sunday that it is still a serious contender at the World Cup. The reigning European champions sit atop the group thanks to a 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia, which saw Lamine Yamal score his first-ever World Cup goal and Mikel Oyarzabal register two goals and an assist.

Cape Verde punched above its weight once again as it split points in a 2-2 draw against Uruguay. Kevin Pina and Hélio Varela got on the scoresheet for Cape Verde’s first two goals in World Cup history. Uruguay managed to escape with a point after goals from Maxi Araujo and Agustín Canobbio prevented an early exit.

The final set of games will see Saudi Arabia take on Cape Verde, while a blockbuster match between Uruguay and Spain could decide who wins the group.

Uruguay vs Cape Verde Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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France and Norway have been dominant through the first two matches of the group stage, setting up for an intriguing winner-take-all match on Friday. Whoever wins Friday’s France-Norway match will win the group. 

However, if the match ends in a draw, France will advance as it holds the difference in goal differential. France is now plus-five in goal differential following its 3-0 win over Iraq on Monday. Norway, meanwhile, is plus-four in goal differential following its 3-2 win over Senegal. 

Senegal and Iraq will play for third place on Friday, with the winner of that match potentially moving on to the round of 32. 

Argentina secured passage to the round of 32 with its 2-0 win over Austria, and then Algeria’s win over Jordan meant the reigning champions have won the group. Lionel Messi’s record-breaking goals secured the win in style. He has now scored the most goals in World Cup history and already has five in two games at this tournament.

On the final match day in this group, Algeria face Austria. There’s a chance both teams advance, but a win from either team would secure passage to the round of 32.

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Colombia advanced to the round of 32 with a win against DR Congo on Tuesday, and it currently leads Group K with six points. Whichever team wins between Colombia and Portugal in the Group K finale on Saturday will win the group.

DR Congo is still in contention for a spot in the round of 32 with one point entering the final group stage match day. Uzbekistan was disqualified from round of 32 contention with a loss to Portugal on Tuesday.

Portugal vs Uzbekistan Extended Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

Check out the full game highlights between Portugal and Uzbekistan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup™. Announced by Darren Fletcher and Owen Hargreaves.

England was held to a draw against Ghana, while Croatia got a hugely necessary win over Panama, which has been disqualified from advancing.

England and Ghana are level on four points entering the final match day. The Three Lions will face Panama, while Ghana will take on Croatia. England has the edge right now with a better goal difference, so it sits atop the group.

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Rank		GP	Points	Goal Diff.
1	Bosnia	3	4	-1
2	Sweden	2	3	0
3	Croatia	2	3	-1
4	South Korea	3	3	-1
5	Algeria	2	3	-2
6	Paraguay	2	3	-2
7	Scotland	3	3	-3
8	Cape Verde	2	2	0
Cutline
9	Belgium	2	2	0
10	DR Congo	2	1	-1
11	Ecuador	2	1	-1
12	Senegal	2	0	-3

The eight third-place teams with the most points advance to the round of 32. 

June 28, Inglewood: 

South Africa vs. Canada

June 29, Houston

Brazil vs. runner-up Group F

• Current favorite to be Group F runner-up: Japan (+125)
• Projected matchup: Brazil vs. Japan

June 29, Foxborough

Germany vs. third-place team (Group A, B, C, D, F)

• Current projection for third-place team: Paraguay (Group D)
• Odds for Paraguay to qualify: -650
• Projected matchup: Germany vs. Paraguay

June 29, Guadalupe

Winner Group F vs. Morocco 

• Current favorite to win Group F: Netherlands (-310)
• Current favorite to be Group C runner-up: Morocco (-220)
• Projected matchup: Netherlands vs. Morocco

June 30, East Rutherford

Winner Group I vs. third-place team (Group C, D, F, G, H)

• Current favorite to win Group I: France (-500)
• Current projection for third-place team: Sweden (Group F)
• Odds for Sweden to qualify: -1900
• Projected matchup: France vs. Sweden

June 30, Arlington

Runner-up Group E vs. runner-up Group I

• Current favorite to be Group E runner-up: Ivory Coast (-600)
• Current favorite to be Group I runner-up: Norway (-480)
• Projected matchup: Ivory Coast vs. Norway

June 30, Mexico City

Mexico vs. third-place team (Group C, E, F, H, I)

• Current projection for third-place team: Scotland (Group C)
• Odds for Scotland to qualify: -500
• Projected matchup: Mexico vs. Scotland

July 1, Santa Clara

USA vs. third-place team (Group B, E, F, I, J)

• Current projection for third-place team: Bosnia and Herzegovina (Group B)
• Odds for Bosnia and Herzegovina to qualify: -140
• Projected matchup: USA vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina

July 1, Seattle

Winner Group G vs. third-place team (Group A, E, H, I, J)

• Current favorite for Group G winner: Egypt (-185)
• Current projection for third-place team: Czechia (Group A)
• Odds for Czechia to qualify: +200
• Projected matchup: Egypt vs South Korea

July 1, Atlanta

Winner Group L vs. third-place team (Group E, H, I, J, K)

• Current favorite to win Group L: England (-1400)
• Current projection for third-place team: DR Congo (Group K)
• Odds for DR Congo to qualify: -150
• Projected matchup: England vs. DR Congo

July 2, Toronto

Runner-up Group K vs. runner-up Group L

• Current favorite to be Group K runner-up: Colombia (+140)
• Current favorite to be Group L runner-up: Croatia (-155)
• Projected matchup: Colombia vs. Croatia 

July 2, Inglewood

Winner Group H vs. runner-up Group J

• Current favorite to be Group H winner: Spain (-700)
• Current favorite to be Group J runner-up: Austria (-200)
• Projected matchup: Spain vs. Austria 

July 2, Vancouver

Switzerland vs. third-place team (Group E, F, G, I, J)

• Current projection for third-place team: Algeria (Group J)
• Odds for Algeria to qualify: -450
• Projected matchup: Switzerland vs. Algeria

July 3, Miami

Argentina vs. runner-up Group H

• Current favorite to be Group H runner-up: Cape Verde (-120)
• Projected matchup: Argentina vs. Cape Verde

July 3, Arlington

Runner-up Group D vs. runner-up Group G

• Current favorite to be Group D runner-up: Australia (-115)
• Current favorite to be Group G runner-up: Belgium (-150)
• Projected matchup: Australia vs. Belgium

July 3, Kansas City

Winner Group K vs. third-place team (Group D, E, I, J, L)

• Current favorite to be Group K winner: Portugal
• Current projection for third-place team: Ghana (Group L)
• Odds for Ghana to qualify: -400
• Projected matchup: Portugal vs. Ghana

Note: Third-place selections were taken from Expecting Goals.

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Morocco spent a half being outplayed by a team that arrived with nothing to lose, then snapped back to reality. A rotated and rusty Atlas Lions side trailed Haiti twice in Atlanta before quality — and a lively bench — turned it into a 4-2 win.

Here are my takeaways from Morocco’s comeback over Haiti:

1. Group C, Sorted: Morocco March On, Haiti Head Home

(Photo by Pablo Garcia/Soccrates/Getty Images)

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With Brazil seeing off Scotland 3-0 across the bracket, Group C finished as the seedings predicted — just not in the order Morocco wanted. Both Brazil and Morocco closed on seven points, but Brazil’s plus-six goal difference dwarfed Morocco’s plus-three, so the Atlas Lions take second and the slightly bumpier road. As runners-up, they’re set to meet the Group F winner in the Round of 32 — likely the Netherlands or Japan. Regardless of the outcome, the 2022 semifinalists have advanced.

For Haiti, the math was settled before kickoff. The defeat locks them into last place with zero points, eliminating them and sending them home. The favorites advance. The underdogs bow out.

2. Ismael Saibari Saved His Best For Every Occasion

(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

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Some players save their best for the big stage. Ismael Saibari decided every stage was the big one. The PSV Eindhoven striker scored in all three group games — a delicate lob against Brazil, the fastest goal in Morocco’s World Cup history against Scotland, and a cool Achraf Hakimi-assisted finish here — to finish as Morocco’s group-stage top scorer with three.

Morocco’s Ismael Saibari scores equalizer vs Haiti | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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He’s the breakout name, but hardly the only one who shone. Captain Achraf Hakimi was everywhere again, scoring one goal and assisting another from right back. Real Madrid’s Brahim Díaz and Stuttgart’s Bilal El Khannouss provided the craft in the final third. And the bench bailed them out: substitutes Soufiane Rahimi and Gessime Yassine combined for the two goals that finally put Haiti away. Morocco isn’t a one-man team. They’re a deep one, which is far more frightening.

3. The Tactics: Hakimi’s Show, And A Bench That Bites

(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

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On paper, it was a 4-2-3-1. In practice, it was the Achraf Hakimi show with a double pivot behind it. Morocco controlled 70% of the ball, funneled their best attacks through Hakimi’s overlapping runs on the right, and trusted Sofyan Amrabat and Neil El Aynaoui to shield the back four. When it clicks — as it did against Brazil and Scotland — Mohamed Ouahbi’s side looks like a team that can hurt anyone. They possess significant technical ability across every line in the formation.

The caveat: they conceded twice to an already-eliminated Haiti, the kind of switch-off better opponents punish. So what’s the ceiling? These are the 2022 semifinalists, now with arguably more attacking talent and a bench that wins games. Another deep run is firmly on the table — the quarterfinals feel a fair ask — provided the concentration that drifted in Atlanta shows up for the knockouts.

4. Haiti Leave With A Goal For The Ages

(Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

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Haiti reached their first World Cup in 52 years and left without a point: three games, three defeats, bottom of Group C. But don’t confuse the standings for the story. Sébastien Migné’s side led mighty Morocco twice, and the moment that outlives this tournament belonged to Wilson Isidor. With Haiti ahead and swinging, the Sunderland forward collected the ball on the right, shifted onto his stronger foot, and detonated a rocket into the top-left corner — an early goal-of-the-tournament nominee from a team that wasn’t supposed to score at all.

Haiti’s Wilson Isidor scores powerful screamer top corner vs. Morocco | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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The bodies and the quality ran out after the break, as everyone suspected they might. But Haiti found the net for the first time at a World Cup since 1974 and genuinely frightened a semifinalist. Some nights, that’s the victory. For Isidor, that’s a memory that’ll last a lifetime.

Morocco vs Haiti Extended Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Under a grey South Florida sky at Miami Stadium where David Beckham was questionably drinking red wine (in this humidity?) from a suite, Brazil put on a show that dampened Scotland’s party while clinching a spot in the World Cup knockout rounds. 

Brazilian flags and the canary yellow-clad fans continuously erupted in cheer as Carlo Ancelotti’s side continued took full control of the evening and won Group C. As for the usually raucous Tartan Army, they saw Scotland sadly struggle to get anything going and cause mistake over mistake.

One thing is for sure. Ancelotti is slowly but surely returning the Joga Bonito (play beautifully) personality to Brazil. And that’s a scary thing for anyone else standing in its way. 

Here are my takeaways:

1. Vinícius Júnior Is Dancing To World Cup Glory

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The night belonged to the five-time World Cup champion and most importantly, Vinícius Júnior, who is having a tournament to remember. 

The Real Madrid star scored twice and gave the Scottish backline grief throughout the night, whilst Matheus Cunha sneakily scored his third goal of the competition to surprisingly also be in the mix for the Golden Boot race.

Thanks to his two goals, Vini Jr. has now scored in all three matches of the group stage – making him the first Brazilian to accomplish that feat since Rivaldo and Ronaldo in 2002, which is when the Seleção last won the World Cup. 

In fact, every time this has happened, Brazil has won the World Cup as Romario did in 1994 and Jairzinho in 1970 – where the legendary winger scored in every game. Could Vini Jr. emulate that at this World Cup? 

It’s obviously a big ask, but right now he has four goals — only one behind Argentina’s Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race for the tournament’s top goalscorer. But what’s more important, the Brazil star is leading by example. And that’s exactly what this team needs.

2. Neymar Jr.’s Cameo Continues Summer Of Stars

(Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

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It was also a night where Brazil welcomed back Neymar Jr., as the 34-year-old entered the pitch with less than 15 minutes to go. In a tournament where veteran icons like Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić are having their moments in the spotlight, it was nice for Brazilians to welcome their own legendary star once again.  

After nearly three years, October 2023 to be exact, Neymar Jr. returned to action with Brazil. It has been an arduous time filled with injury-ridden problems that included his ACL and meniscus tear. But once he entered the pitch in the 76th minute to replace Matheus Cunha, the crowd on their feet chanted his name with excitement. 

This is exactly why Ancelotti brought him back to the squad. To not just perform but to ignite a fire within Brazil. If he can be an impactful player, even in 15–20 minutes of action, then Brazil will feel deeper, stronger and more confident. 

3. Scotland Gave Brazil Too Much Respect

(Photo by Craig Williamson/SNS Group via Getty Images)

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Scotland now has a waiting game to see if it has made it as a top-eight third-placed team. Having the opening game victory over Haiti helps but the setback against Morocco, and conceding three goals on Tuesday to Brazil, most definitely does not.

Don’t get me wrong. Brazil totally deserved its win and there was probably nothing Scotland could have done tonight to change the narrative. But I thought the Scots were too nervous instead of pressing Brazil and making it uncomfortable.

In simple terms, Scotland just sat for too long and waited for Brazil to charge as opposed to stopping the momentum in the first place. In this game, whatever happened, Scotland needed to gamble, and I don’t think the team gambled enough.

Steve Clarke’s side has three points but also a -3 goal differential, so it has to see whether Scotland will sneak into the round of 32 or if the memorable stateside trip of the Tartan Army finishes earlier than hoped.

4. Bruno Guimarães With A Terrific Performance 

(Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)

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With the style being provided by the likes of Vinícius Júnior, there needs to be some kudos given to Brazil’s engine in the middle. The Newcastle United man was excellent, as he provided a perfect assist for Vini’s second. Throughout the game, he hovered all over the midfield to begin the team’s sequences and was critical in all the created chances.

In the second half, he gave another assist to Matheus Cunha, thanks to a great run inside the box. It was a lovely flick. It was an imposing display.

In all, it was a complete performance for Brazil, who now wait for its Round of 32 opponent, which is the runner-up from Group F — either the Netherlands, Japan or Sweden. That’s not an easy situation, especially with the first two mentioned.

Scotland vs Brazil Extended Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Disgruntled receiver Brandon Aiyuk said he would sign immediately with the Washington Commanders if the San Francisco 49ers grant his wish and release him.

Aiyuk is currently on the reserve/left squad list after he stopped showing up late last season as he rehabilitates a knee injury that has sidelined him since October 2024. Aiyuk wants to be released, but the Niners have shown no urgency to make a move even though general manager John Lynch has said he doesn’t expect Aiyuk to play for the team again.

“Tell them boys cut me today and I’ll sign with the Commanders tomorrow,” Aiyuk said on social media Wednesday.

The Commanders haven’t commented on Aiyuk’s status while he remains under contract to San Francisco and haven’t indicated that they would sign him if he becomes available.

Aiyuk signed a four-year, $120 million extension with San Francisco just before the start of the 2024 season following a lengthy contract “hold in” that kept him out of practice that summer.

Aiyuk played seven games and caught 25 passes that season before going down with a season-ending knee injury and the acrimony between the sides only increased. The 49ers voided $27 million guaranteed in Aiyuk’s contract for 2026 last summer because he failed to participate in meetings and other team activities.

Aiyuk then left the team late in the season and has not talked to coach Kyle Shanahan or Lynch since then, communicating only through social media messages, calling the team “stupid” for paying him so much money.

Aiyuk could put pressure on the 49ers to make a decision if he shows up when the 49ers report to training camp on July 25. Until he reports, the 49ers can keep him on the reserve list without him counting to the salary cap or the roster limits.

Aiyuk has three years remaining on the four-year, $120 million extension he signed last year, including a nearly $25 million option bonus due before the start of this season. But he now has no guaranteed money remaining and won’t be owed anything unless he reports to the team.

The 28-year-old Aiyuk has 294 catches for 4,305 yards and 25 TDs since being drafted in the first round in 2020.

Aiyuk recently had an arrest warrant issued by Santa Clara County on a misdemeanor charge of exhibition of speeding in response to a video Aiyuk posted to social media last December that appeared to show him speeding on the road in front of Levi’s Stadium.

Reporting by the Associated Press.

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The United States is through to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 following its 2-0 win over Australia at Seattle Stadium on Friday. 

With that, coupled with Türkiye’s loss to Paraguay, the USA clinched the top spot in Group D.

The United States winning Group D marks just the third time in history that the Americans have finished atop their group at a men’s World Cup. The U.S. previously accomplished the feat in 1930, finishing ahead of Paraguay and Belgium, and again in 2010, when it barely edged England for first place because of goals scored.

With the win, the U.S. will face the third-place team from either Group B, E, F, I or J in its Round of 32 matchup. That game will be played at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium on July 1. 

If the USA continues to advance, it will play the Round of 16 at Seattle Stadium, the quarterfinals at Los Angeles Stadium, the semifinals at Dallas Stadium and a potential final at New York New Jersey stadium. 

The 2010 USA team was the last one to win its World Cup group (Getty Images). –>

Before the tournament began, the U.S. was +5500 to win the World Cup. Now, after its dream start, its odds have surged to +3000. 

So when will the USA lose? Or, especially after its group stage dominance so far, will it even lose at all? 

Let’s take a look at the updated odds for the United States’ stage of elimination at FanDuel Sportsbook as of June 24.

Team USA — Stage of elimination odds

Last 32: +180 (bet $10 to win $28 total)
Quarterfinals: +220 (bet $10 to win $32 total)
Last 16: +250 (bet $10 to win $35 total)
Semifinals: +700 (bet $10 to win $80 total)
Runner-up: +2000 (bet $10 to win $210 total)
Outright winner: +3000 (bet $10 to win $310 total)

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After USA’s opening wins against Paraguay and Australia, the oddsboard still projects the Americans to fall in the first knockout-stage game.  

The second-highest chance on the oddsboard is to be eliminated in the quarterfinals, meaning the U.S. would win two knockout stage games, before falling in the quarterfinals.

How would that result stack up against previous results? Well, at the 2022 World Cup, Team USA made it to the Round of 16, which was viewed as a stellar accomplishment. 

The U.S. men’s national team currently has 30-1 odds to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy this summer (Getty Images). –>

In 2018, the USA did not qualify for the World Cup, and in 2014 and 2010, the Americans also made it to the Round of 16. Their best result this century occurred in 2002, when the Americans made it all the way to the quarterfinals before being eliminated. 

In 1998, the USA lost in the group stage, in 1994, it fell in the Round of 16, and in 1990, it also fell in the group stage.

The Stars and Stripes will face Türkiye in its third and final group stage match on Thursday. 

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