Brazil has advanced to the FIFA World Cup knockout stage as Group C champions after defeating Scotland. Joining them in the next round is Morocco, who drew their opening match against Brazil and secured the runners-up spot following a victory over Haiti.

Brazil’s 3-0 triumph over Scotland cemented their position at the top of the group with 7 points. As group champions, they will face the runners-up of Group F in the Round of 32. Netherlands, Japan, and Sweden are all in contention to finish second in Group F. Meanwhile, Group C runners-up Morocco will face whichever of those three teams tops Group F. Morocco also finished the group stage with 7 points after a 4-2 win against Haiti, but placed second due to a goal difference deficit compared to Brazil.

Vinicius Junior was the architect of Brazil’s victory. The number 7 forward netted a brace, while Matheus Cunha also got on the scoresheet. On the other hand, Morocco’s goals were scored by Achraf Hakimi, Ismael Saibari, Soufiane Rahimi, and Gessime Yassine.

At the Miami Stadium, Vinicius put Brazil ahead within just 7 minutes. Scottish defender Scott McKenna attempted a clearance, but under pressure from Ryan, the ball broke to Vinicius, who was waiting in front of the keeper. The Real Madrid star rounded the goalkeeper to slot the ball into the Scottish net.

Vinicius appeared to score his second in the 22nd hour mark after dispossessing Jack Hendry and slipping the ball through Angus Gunn’s legs. However, the referee disallowed the goal following a VAR review, ruling that Vinicius had fouled Hendry while winning the ball.

The winger did not have to wait long for his second, doubling the lead just before the halftime whistle. Vinicius Jr. guided home a header from a lofted cross by Bruno Guimarães. This takes his tally to 4 goals in 3 matches at this World Cup, surpassing his single-goal return from the Qatar World Cup.

Brazil scored their third in the 60th minute through a defense-splitting passing move. Bruno Guimarães found himself with a scoring opportunity but chose to square the ball to Cunha for an easier finish. The Brazilian number nine duly converted to secure his third goal of the tournament, having previously scored a brace against Haiti.

Neymar Jr was introduced as a substitute for Cunha in the 76th minute but failed to register a goal or an assist.