Brazil took a major step toward qualification at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by establishing a 2-0 lead over Scotland at halftime in Miami.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side weathered a lively Scottish start before Vinícius Júnior opened the scoring in the seventh minute. Rayan’s high pressing forced a costly defensive error, allowing the Real Madrid star to round goalkeeper Angus Gunn and slot the ball into an empty net. The goal settled Brazil, which gradually imposed its rhythm and control on the match.
Scotland struggled to cope with Brazil’s attacking movement as Vinícius repeatedly threatened down the left flank. The Brazilian forward thought he had doubled the lead midway through the half after capitalizing on another defensive mistake, but the video assistant referee ruled out the goal for a foul on Jack Hendry. Despite a brief Scottish reaction, Brazil continued to create the better opportunities and maintained its dominance in possession.
Vinícius finally grabbed his second goal in first-half stoppage time. Bruno Guimarães delivered a precise cross to the far post, where the winger rose above Nathan Patterson and headed home to give Brazil a deserved two-goal advantage. With his fourth goal of the tournament, Vinícius once again proved decisive as Brazil headed into the break firmly in control at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
