Brazil’s road towards a home World Cup in 2027 began with a 3-1 win over Argentina in Porto Alegre on Saturday night, although the hosts’ celebration was tempered by a worrying injury to defender Bruninha.
The right-back was carried off on a stretcher after hurting her right knee, casting a shadow over an otherwise encouraging evening for Arthur Elias’ side. Brazil will stage the next Women’s World Cup from 24 June to 25 July 2027.
Atlético Madrid forward Luany made a decisive contribution, scoring once and providing an assist. She said the squad had absorbed the coach’s ideas and was continuing to refine its game ahead of the tournament.
“The playing philosophy is very clear for all of us and we know what we have to do,” Luany said. “We are constantly improving our football so that we arrive at the World Cup in the best condition.”
Brazil and Argentina will meet again on Tuesday in Recife for a second friendly.
Spain strike early against the United States
Elsewhere, reigning world champions Spain earned a controlled 2-0 victory over the United States in Washington.
Patricia Guijarro gave La Roja an early lead in the third minute before Eva Navarro doubled the advantage 11 minutes later. Spain saw out the match against the Americans despite being without several leading players.
Mapi León, Claudia Pina, Cata Coll and Olga Carmona were unavailable through injury, while three-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí was not selected for the squad.
Spain and the United States are scheduled to face each other again on Tuesday in Chester, Pennsylvania.
