Brazil advances, history for S Africa, Canada, Bosnia
Brazil punished Scotland’s defensive frailties to advance to the World Cup’s last 32 on June 24 as South Africa, Canada and Bosnia-Herzegovina completed a historic hat-trick by progressing to the knockout rounds for the first time.
Five-time World Cup champion Brazil clinched first place in Group C after defeating Scotland 3-0 in Miami, topping the group on goal difference from second-placed Morocco, which secured its passage after battling to a 4-2 win over Haiti in Atlanta.
South Africa stunned South Korea 1-0 in Monterrey to grab second place in Group A and set up a last 32 clash with Canada, which also made history by advancing in second place from Group B.
But Brazil’s victory at the Hard Rock Stadium left Scotland on the brink of elimination, dampening the mood among the traveling hordes of the famous Tartan Army.Brazil’s win also saw coach Carlo Ancelotti give veteran striker Neymar his first appearance of the tournament, the Selecao’s all-time leading scorer coming on as a second-half substitute.
