Bruno Guimaraes starred in Brazil's 3-0 win against Scotland on 24 June, providing two assists in the final Group C game of the tournament.
What happened?
The Newcastle United midfielder set up one of Vinicius Junior's goals in the first half and played Matheus Cunha through on goal at around the hour mark.
The Magpies' superstar started in every group-stage game for the Selecao, who now await to see whether they will play the Netherlands, Japan or Sweden in the last 32.
Why it matters for Bruno Guimaraes
Guimaraes played the full 90 minutes, starting alongside Casemiro and Lucas Paqueta in the engine room, and helped Brazil control the tempo of the game with his passing and ball control.
He also did the dirty work defensively, earning a rating of 8 out of 10 from ge.globo, who hailed his performance as "one of Brazil's best so far in the World Cup".
What comes next?
Sources told Football Insider on 22 June that Newcastle are eyeing Monaco's Lamine Camara to replace Sandro Tonali this summer, which could see Guimaraes have a new partner in midfield next season.
Guimaraes and the 26-year-old Italy international were influential in the Tyneside outfit's Carabao Cup triumph in 2025, but it looks like the Brazil international may have a new partner in midfield next season.
ESPN Brasil gave Guimaraes 7.5 out of 10, writing, "Another player criticised for his inconsistent performances for the national team, today he leaves with two assists: a high cross for Vini and a low pass for Cunha."
Trivela gave Guimaraes an 8.5 out of 10, highlighting his ability to roam freely in midfield as one of Brazil's main strengths in the group stage.
The Brazilian media's praise for Guimaraes' performance is a testament to his growing importance to the national team, and he will look to continue his good form in the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup.