MIAMI, United States — Brazil booked their place in the FIFA World Cup last 32 on Wednesday with a commanding 3-0 victory over Scotland, while South Africa, Canada, and Bosnia-Herzegovina all made history by reaching the knockout stages for the first time.
The five-time world champions finished top of Group C after an impressive display at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, with two goals from Vinicius Junior and another from Matheus Cunha.
Brazil’s victory ensured they advanced as group winners ahead of the Morocco national football team, who defeated the Haiti national football team 4-2 in Atlanta to secure second place.
Scotland’s hopes suffered a major setback after defensive errors proved costly against the South Americans. Vinicius opened the scoring in the seventh minute after capitalising on a mistake by defender Scott McKenna before adding a second just before half-time.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti also handed veteran forward Neymar his first appearance of the tournament after the striker returned from injury.
“We played as a collective, and that’s a good thing,” Ancelotti said after the match. “There are many positive things, such as Neymar’s appearance, which can help us.”
South Africa Pulls Off Major Upset
The day’s biggest surprise came in Monterrey, where the South Africa national football team stunned the South Korea national football team 1-0 to qualify for the knockout rounds for the first time.
A second-half goal from Thapelo Maseko secured a famous victory for Bafana Bafana, who had opened their campaign with a disappointing defeat to Mexico.
“It’s very difficult to explain how it feels,” said South Africa coach Hugo Broos. “It’s a fantastic experience.”
South Africa will now face Canada national football team in the last 32.
Canada and Bosnia Reach Historic Milestones
Canada also celebrated a landmark achievement despite a 2-1 defeat to Switzerland national football team in Vancouver.
The Canadians progressed as Group B runners-up on goal difference, edging out the Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team, who defeated the Qatar national football team 3-1.
Bosnia later secured qualification as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, marking their first-ever appearance in the World Cup knockout phase.
Mexico Maintain Perfect Record
Elsewhere, the Mexico national football team completed the group stage with a perfect record after defeating the Czech Republic national football team 3-0 at Estadio Azteca.
Goals from Mateo Chavez, Julian Quinones, and Alvaro Fidalgo sealed the win.
The match also saw veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa make a late appearance, becoming one of the few players to feature in six World Cup tournaments.