Brazil are closing in on a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 as the group stage approaches its final round. The five-time world champions have collected four points from their first two Group C matches and are well placed to advance to the knockout stage.
Carlo Ancelotti's side currently sit level on points with Morocco, while Scotland remain in the hunt with three points. Haiti, meanwhile, have lost both of their matches and is all but eliminated from qualification contention.
Brazil needs only to avoid defeat
Brazil's qualification scenario is straightforward heading into their final group game against Scotland. A victory would guarantee a top-two finish in Group C and secure direct entry into the Round of 32. Even a draw would be enough for the Selecao to progress.
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The South American giants also hold a superior goal difference over Scotland, giving them an additional advantage before the decisive clash. As a result, Brazil entered the match knowing that a positive result would be sufficient to continue their World Cup campaign.
🚨Matheus Cunha will START for Brazil today against Scotland, alongside Vinícius Jr. and Rayan.
— (fan) Zaid ✍🏼🇾🇪 (@ZaidBalll) June 24, 2026
[@ESPNBrasil] pic.twitter.com/oIdYFuo7xx
The expanded 48-team tournament format means the top two teams from each group qualify automatically for the knockout stage, increasing Brazil's chances of progressing.
Defeat could still leave the door open
A loss to Scotland would make the situation more complicated, but would not necessarily eliminate Brazil. Under the World Cup 2026 format, the eight best third-placed teams across the 12 groups will also qualify for the Round of 32.
If Scotland defeats Brazil, the Selecao could still advance through that route, depending on their goal difference and overall record compared to other third-placed teams. A narrow defeat would therefore be far less damaging than a heavy loss.
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Brazil will nevertheless aim to avoid leaving qualification to other results. With group position, momentum and a potentially favourable knockout draw at stake, Ancelotti's men will be focused on securing at least a point against Scotland.
A positive result would confirm Brazil's place in the Round of 32 and keep alive their bid to win a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title.
