Raphinha ruled out as Brazil make shock change for Scotland clash

Raphinha ruled out of Brazil’s World Cup finale after injury setback

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti made a late change to his starting lineup for the World Cup Group C decider against Scotland on Wednesday, dropping Raphinha through injury.

The Leeds winger was replaced by Rayan in a surprise move that saw Neymar named on the bench for the first time since recovering from a calf strain. Brazil beat Haiti 3-0 in their previous match, while Scotland lost 1-0 to Morocco.

What happened in Miami?

Ancelotti’s starting XI against Scotland featured Rayan alongside Vinicius Jr and Matheus Cunha in attack. The Scots made four changes of their own under Steve Clarke, with Ben Gannon-Doak and Lawrence Shankland among the new faces.

Brazil’s lineup read: Alisson, Danilo, Gabriel Magalhães, Marquinhos, Douglas Santos, Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Lucas Paquetá, Rayan, Vinicius Jr, Matheus Cunha. Scotland named Angus Gunn in goal behind a back five of Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay, John McGinn, Jack Hendry and Nathan Patterson.

Why it matters for Raphinha

The injury rules Raphinha out of Brazil’s final group game and casts doubt over his World Cup status. The 26-year-old had started every match for Brazil so far, providing creativity and pace from the right wing.

His absence hands Rayan a chance to impress in a high-pressure fixture. Neymar’s bench role hints at a cautious approach, with Brazil already through to the knockout rounds.

What comes next for Brazil?

Brazil face Scotland in Miami on June 24 at 21:00 local time. A win would secure top spot in Group C, while a draw or loss could see them finish second behind France.

Raphinha’s recovery timeline remains unclear. His club side Leeds will need him fit for their own Premier League push when the season restarts after the World Cup break.