Brazil tops Group C with 3-0 win over Scotland; Vinícius Júnior scores twice

Brazil secured the top spot in Group C with a dominant 3-0 victory over Scotland, advancing to the World Cup knockout stage. Vinícius Júnior was the star of the match, scoring twice to bring his tournament tally to four goals, matching Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland. Matheus Cunha sealed the win with a third goal in the second half.

The Scottish team struggled, making several errors that led to Brazil's goals. Their early defensive lapse allowed Rayan to set up Vinícius Júnior for the opening goal in the seventh minute. Despite a disallowed second goal for Vinícius Júnior after a VAR review, he doubled Brazil's lead just before halftime.

Matheus Cunha extended Brazil's advantage in the 60th minute, capitalizing on another Scottish mistake. Coach Carlo Ancelotti used the comfortable lead to give Neymar his first appearance of the tournament in the 76th minute. Brazil will now await their opponent in the round of 32, which will be the runner-up from Group F.

Scotland, with three points, now faces an anxious wait to see if their third-place finish is enough to qualify for the next round as one of the best third-placed teams. Their performance leaves their World Cup hopes hanging by a thread.