Scotland’s World Cup hopes dealt major blow after defeat to Vinicius-inspired Brazil

Brazil sealed top spot in Group C with a commanding 3-0 victory over Scotland, thanks to a Vinicius Junior brace and a second-half strike from Matheus Cunha.

Neymar also made his long-awaited return as the five-time world champions booked their place in the last 32.

Scotland started brightly but their evening unravelled after a costly mistake from Scott McKenna allowed Vinicius to round Angus Gunn and open the scoring.

The Real Madrid forward had another effort ruled out by VAR before grabbing his second of the night just before half-time, punishing another defensive lapse to leave Steve Clarke's side with a mountain to climb.

Brazil never looked troubled after the break. Bruno Guimaraes drove through midfield before teeing up Cunha to slot home the third, while Neymar's introduction was greeted by a huge ovation from the Brazil supporters.

The result sends Brazil through to face the runners-up of Group F in Houston on June 29, while Scotland must now wait to discover whether three points will be enough to progress as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams.