In a friendly that turned sharply in Brazil’s favour, the Spanish-based attacking contingent provided the decisive edge as the Seleção recovered to defeat Australia 4-2.
Spanish clubs leave their mark on Brazil comeback
Vinicius Junior, Raphinha and Endrick were central to Brazil’s response, with the three forwards praised for preventing an uncomfortable night from becoming an embarrassment for the five-time world champions.
- Vinicius Junior and Raphinha began the match in Brazil’s starting side, while Raphinha was again used through the middle as a centre-forward, a role he has also occupied for Barcelona.
- At half-time, Raphinha reported discomfort in his right thigh and was replaced by Real Madrid teenager Endrick.
- Endrick’s introduction gave Brazil greater movement in attack, and he created the goal that put the team ahead when Bruno Guimarães scored the comeback strike.
- Vinicius then settled the contest from the left flank. After beating an Australian defender with a dribble, he was brought down in the penalty area.
- The Real Madrid forward took the penalty himself and converted it to complete Brazil’s 4-2 victory.
The match offered another illustration of how heavily Brazil’s attacking options are now shaped by the Spanish game: Barcelona’s Raphinha started in the central role, while the Real Madrid pair of Vinicius and Endrick influenced the second-half turnaround.
