Carlo Ancelotti is satisfied with the team's progress and believes that the team's overall structure has become more solid.

Carlo Ancelotti expressed satisfaction with Brazil's 3-0 victory over Scotland in their third group stage match of the 2026 World Cup. The match, held in Miami, secured Brazil's place as group winners and advancement to the knockout stage. In the post-match press conference, he praised the team's overall consistency while noting that there is still room for improvement.  

Carlo Ancelotti said: "We are now playing as a team, which is exactly our goal. Of course, we are not yet perfect and there are still some aspects that need improvement, especially in terms of being able to handle possession more quickly. I am satisfied with the team's progress, and the overall structure is now more solid. In the knockout stage, consistency is especially crucial. Compared to the first game, we made fewer mistakes, our rhythm was smoother, and our attacking efficiency improved."  

At Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Brazil secured victory thanks to a brace from Vinicius Junior and a goal from Matthäus Cunha. This attacking duo has accounted for all seven of the team's goals in this World Cup so far. Vinicius scored in the first three matches, equaling the record held by legends such as Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Gerardino, and Romário. He has thus earned high praise from Carlo Ancelotti, who has called him "one of the best players in the world."  

Carlo Ancelotti continued, "It's gratifying to see Vinicius perform like this, because I never doubted he could show this level at the World Cup. It's an honor for him to wear the national team jersey. He played exceptionally well, even scoring a header, which is rare for him. I don't need to 'discover' Vinicius, because he is already a top player, one of the best in the world."  

During the match, Rafinha, who was absent due to a right hamstring injury, was replaced by young player Rayan, whose performance was equally commendable. Rayan not only participated in the team's first goal but also nearly scored himself.  

Carlo Ancelotti said: "Rayan showed a very well-rounded performance on both ends of the pitch, and his overall performance was outstanding. I am very satisfied with his performance. Young players are crucial to the team. He showed maturity on the field, a very serious attitude in training, and good technical ability. It is still difficult to judge how high his ceiling will be."  

In the 30th minute, Neymar came on as a substitute, making his World Cup debut. This was also his first appearance for the Brazilian national team since suffering a serious knee injury in October 2023, 981 days after his return to the national team. A veteran who has participated in four World Cups (2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026), he had just recovered from a calf muscle injury. Carlo Ancelotti praised his professionalism and physical condition, emphasizing that he remains an important member of the team's system.  

Carlo Ancelotti added: "Neymar got playing time because he absolutely deserved it. He trained very hard during his recovery and always maintained a very high level of professionalism. With his ability, he can still provide important help to the team in this World Cup. He performed well in his limited playing time. Neymar doesn't need extra motivation to represent Brazil, no player needs that kind of motivation, and he is no exception. He is 34 years old, but he is still as passionate as a young player."  

Image source: Internet/Brazil National Team Official Website