Bruno Guimaraes is now tied as the World Cup’s top assister after his masterclass put Scotland to the sword last night.
Bruno Guimaraes showcased his best World Cup performance yet to put Scotland on the brink of an early elimination.
Newcastle United’s skipper produced two brilliant assists as Brazil coasted to victory in Miami. Vinicius Jr bagged a brace, with Manchester United maverick Matheus Cunha also netting to seal all three points on the hour mark.
There was even a cameo for Neymar, Brazil’s wildcard pick who made his first international appearance since 2023. Scotland’s hopes of reaching the knockout rounds for the first time ever are now dangling by a thread.
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Bruno Guimaraes message
Guimaraes is finally revelling in the adulation of his nation after copping flak following the last World Cup. Ancelotti has given the Toon skipper a key role as the heartbeat of his Brazil side.
He has repaid that faith with three assists at the tournament so far - the joint highest alongside Michael Olise and Newcastle United mercenary Alexander Isak. On social media post-match, Guimaraes wrote: “Those are the days that stay in your memory… a great game from the whole team and top of the group. Go Brazil! 3 games, 3 assists. Thank you Jesus! Hard work pays off.”
‘We’re not perfect’ - Carlo Ancelotti
Ancelotti refused to get carried away as Brazil confirmed top spot in Group C. He told reporters: "We're now playing as a team, that was the aim. We're not perfect, we need to improve a few things - we could be quicker when we're in possession.
"I'm happy because the team has improved since the opening match. Being solid is very important now that we've reached the knockout stages. I haven't set a target for how far we can go. The aim isn't just to play well, the aim is to win. A manager is judged by victory or defeat, not by whether the team plays well or badly.”
Carlo Ancelotti on Neymar cameo
On Neymar marking his Brazil return, Ancelotti added: "He got the chance to play because he deserved it, he worked hard to recover. I think that in this World Cup, given his qualities, he can help the team.
“He played for just a few minutes, but he played well. Neymar doesn't need any motivation to play, no player needs motivation to wear the Brazil shirt. He's 34 and still has the same passion as a young boy."
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