Townsville’s tropical distance from Europe has not altered Brazil’s familiar attacking pull. Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Raphinha will start Friday’s friendly in the Australian city, with kick-off scheduled for 12:00, in a Brazil side packed with the country’s young and established forward talent.
The Barcelona player is included alongside Estevao, Vinicius Junior and Endrick. Ancelotti did not set out the precise attacking layout, although his previous comments indicate that Endrick is likely to lead the line. That could place Raphinha on the right, with Vinicius on the left and Estevao operating centrally behind the striker.
Raphinha has been used as a central forward at Barcelona this season under Hansi Flick, but Ancelotti praised the adaptability that has broadened his role for club and country. “Raphinha is doing incredible things in a position that was not originally his, but now seems to have become his as well,” the Italian said.
Ancelotti also addressed Vinicius’s current form, while making clear that his longer-term place in Brazil’s plans is not in doubt. “Vini may not be in his best moment right now, but we are convinced that both of them will be starters in the future,” he said, referring to Vinicius and Raphinha.
Brazil’s confirmed line-up
Brazil will begin with Hugo Souza in goal. Matheuzinho, Marquinhos, Vitor Reis and Douglas Santos form the defence, while Bruno Guimaraes and Danilo Santos are named in midfield. The attacking unit is Raphinha, Estevao, Vinicius and Endrick.
