“DAD!” — NEYMAR’S WORLD CUP RETURN ENDED IN TEARS AFTER A 981-DAY WAIT. After nearly three years away from Brazil, Neymar finally made his emotional World Cup comeback—and it wasn’t the match itself that left fans speechless. The tearful reunion with his son after the final whistle is now one of the tournament’s most talked-about moments.

NEYMAR broke down in tears after making his return for Brazil in their win against Scotland as he enjoyed a special moment with his son.

The former Barcelona star has struggled with injuries in recent years and hadn’t played for Brazil in nearly three years.

Scotland v Brazil, 2026 FIFA World Cup, Group C, Football, Miami Stadium, Miami, Florida, USA - 24 Jun 2026
Neymar cut an emotional figure after finally returning for Brazil against ScotlandCredit: Shutterstock Editorial

 

Scotland v Brazil: Group C - FIFA World Cup 2026
It was a special moment for Neymar as he celebrated his achievement with his familyCredit: Getty

 

Scotland v Brazil: Group C - FIFA World Cup 2026
He shared an embrace with son Davi Lucca after making his first outing in nearly three yearsCredit: Getty

 

A security person holding back a fan attempting to get onto the field.
Security initially tried to block the reunion over fears Davi was a young pitch invaderCredit: Fox Sports

But he finally made his comeback during Brazil’s 3-0 victory in their final World Cup group game.

Boss Carlo Ancelotti sent him on in the 75th minute to replace Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha.

It was an incredible moment for Neymar as he finally got himself back on the pitch for his country.

It was the first time playing for the Samba Stars since he tore his ACL during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay in October 2023.

That injury set Neymar on a difficult path where he has barely played as he suffered an injury nightmare at Saudi club Al-Hilal.

He now plays for Santos and looks to be on the path to recovery – despite missing the first two group games due to lack of fitness.

It has been a tricky time both on and off the pitch and it showed as soon as the final whistle blew.

Neymar – who got a huge ovation from the Miami crowd – was moved to tears as he realised the scope of his achievement.

He headed straight over to his family, who were watching the game pitchside.

Neymar shared a special moment with partner Bruna Biancardi and his daughters Mavie and Mel.

His son Davi Lucca was also present and the pair shared an emotional hug after the game.

Neymar kissed his eldest on the head as his family congratulated him on his momentous return to the team.

However, security almost tried to step in and stop Davi from entering the field of play – fearing he was a young boy attempting to meet Neymar.

But officials quickly let him go after Neymar and the rest of his family started beckoning him over.

Neymar and Bruna announced they were expecting a third child together earlier this month.

At the time he joked: “I’m going to put together a band and, from today, it’s going to be Spice Girls.”

There was another emotional moment for Neymar before the game as he embraced Brazil legend Ronaldinho.

Fans were left emotional after seeing the tender moment between the two Brazilian icons.

Some claimed they had “tears in their eyes” while others said it was “special”.