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Carlo Ancelotti owes Vinicius Jr a gift as Brazil star proves him wrong with 'impossible' header against Scotland
Sameer Bhatia | June 26, 2026 4:47 AM CST

Carlo Ancelotti may need to deliver on a promise after Vinicius Jr accomplished what his coach called 'impossible' during Brazil’s commanding win over Scotland. The Real Madrid forward produced a standout performance as the Selecao clinched first place in Group C, securing progression to the World Cup knockout stage.

Vinicius reveals Ancelotti’s wager

Brazil registered a comfortable victory in Miami, but it was Vinicius who stole the show, revealing a light-hearted wager with his manager. The winger struck early to open the scoring and added another before halftime. However, it was his second goal — a rare header — that inspired post-match humour and a reminder of Ancelotti’s bet.

Speaking after the match, Vinicius shared that Ancelotti had questioned his ability to score with his head. “I’m not too concerned about statistics; what matters most is contributing to the team,” Vinicius told SporTV. “I’m thrilled with the goals — even managed one with a header today! I had promised the coach I’d do it, but he said it was almost impossible and that he’d owe me a gift. So now I’ll wait for it.”

Making history

Beyond the friendly exchange with Ancelotti, Vinicius’s performance etched his name among Brazil’s football greats. His goal in Miami made him only the eighth Brazilian to have scored in every group stage match of a single World Cup edition — joining a prestigious list of national legends who achieved the same feat.

Despite these personal milestones and surpassing several illustrious predecessors, the 25-year-old forward kept his focus on team success. “What truly matters are the victories and our growth throughout the tournament. Now we must keep improving for the knockout rounds, which is our next objective,” he added.

Real Madrid star dismantles Scotland

It was a punishing evening for Scotland, whose defensive lapses were ruthlessly exploited by Brazil’s razor-sharp attack. Within seven minutes, a misplaced clearance allowed Vinicius to round the goalkeeper and score, setting the tone for a long night at the Hard Rock Stadium.

The Real Madrid ace maintained relentless pressure, seeing one goal disallowed by VAR for a foul before finally doubling his tally in first-half stoppage time. Rising to meet a deep Bruno Guimaraes cross, his precise header not only cemented Brazil’s lead but also proved his manager wrong about his heading capabilities.

Brazil target the ultimate glory

With group leadership secured, Ancelotti’s squad appear one of the strongest contenders as the tournament enters its decisive phase. The fixture also marked Neymar’s return from the bench, though the veteran struggled to match the energy of his younger teammate, who was undeniably the driving force behind Brazil’s win. The Selecao now prepare for the round of 32, buoyed by growing confidence and momentum.


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