Neymar's touching words for Lionel Messi: 'He knows I care about him' - WATCH

Brazil star Neymar spoke warmly about his long-time friend Lionel Messi after Brazil sealed their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage with a 3-0 win over Scotland.Speaking after the match, Neymar praised the Argentina captain and said their friendship extends far beyond football.

"He's good on the field, imagine him off it. He's a great friend. He knows I care about him a lot," Neymar said.A friendship built over the yearsNeymar and Messi first played together at Barcelona between 2013 and 2017. Along with Luis Suarez, they formed one of the most feared attacking trios in world football.During their four seasons together, Barcelona won several major trophies, including two La Liga titles, three Copa del Rey crowns, the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup.

The pair reunited at Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 and spent two seasons together in France. They helped PSG win two Ligue 1 titles and the Trophee des Champions before Messi left the club in 2023.Brazil finish top of Group CBrazil booked their place in the knockout stage after a comfortable 3-0 victory over Scotland in their final Group C match.Vinicius Junior was the star of the show, scoring twice in the first half. He opened the scoring in the seventh minute and added another just before the break.

Matheus Cunha then completed the scoring in the second half.The victory ensured Brazil finished top of Group C with seven points. Morocco also progressed from the group after finishing second.Vinicius joins elite companyThe match was another memorable one for Vinicius, who continued his impressive World Cup form.The Real Madrid forward became the first Brazilian player in 24 years to score in each of Brazil's first three matches at a World Cup.

The last players to achieve the feat were Ronaldo Nazario and Rivaldo during Brazil's triumphant 2002 campaign.Vinicius is now only the fifth Brazilian footballer to score in the country's opening three matches at a World Cup.While Brazil celebrated qualification, Scotland's hopes now depend on whether their three points are enough to secure one of the best third-placed spots in the knockout rounds.