Neymar returns and South Africa make history as Groups A, B and C conclude
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Brazil topped Group C with a 3-0 win over Scotland, Vinícius Júnior scoring twice and Neymar coming off the bench for his first appearance of the tournament. According to ESPN, Vinícius has now scored in every group game to reach four for the tournament, level with Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, as Carlo Ancelotti's side finished on seven points and eliminated Scotland in Miami.
South Africa reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history, beating South Korea 1-0 through Thapelo Maseko's second-half goal. Al Jazeera reported the result sealed second place in Group A behind Mexico and set up a last-32 meeting with Canada.
Mexico completed a flawless group stage, beating Czechia 3-0 to finish first in Group A with a perfect nine points — the co-hosts' first such return at a World Cup, according to tournament coverage.
Switzerland claimed top spot in Group B with a 2-1 win over Canada, Ruben Vargas and Johan Manzambi scoring early in the second half before Promise David replied. Both sides advanced, with Canada reaching the knockout round for the first time despite the defeat, per ESPN.
Morocco completed the Group C qualifiers, recovering from two goals down to beat Haiti 4-2 and finish second behind Brazil.
Transfer and squad notes
Neymar's cameo marked his first appearance in a Brazil shirt since October 2023, a significant step in his return from a long injury layoff; his fitness and role in the knockout rounds are now a live question for Ancelotti, according to ESPN.
South Korea's elimination came with Son Heung-min named among the substitutes for the must-win decider, a selection call that drew attention as Bafana Bafana made history at their expense, per Sky Sports.
What it means for the league
Day 14 closed Groups A, B and C and reshaped the bracket, with South Africa's breakthrough and Canada's first knockout qualification adding to a strong tournament for the hosts and outsiders alike. Mexico's perfect group stage and Brazil's return to form — boosted by Neymar's comeback — position two contenders well, while Scotland's exit and Haiti's elimination thin the field. The round of 32 is taking firm shape, with South Africa set to face Canada next.