Brazil secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Mexico in their pre-Copa America friendly, providing the perfect warm-up for the upcoming tournament.
Coach Dorival Junior opted to rest several first-choice players, including Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Raphinha, but his strategy paid off.
Brazil took an early lead through Andreas Pereira, who scored from a Savio pass in the 5th minute. Despite Mexico dominating possession in the first half, they struggled to test goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who replaced the injured Ederson.
The Brazilians doubled their lead early in the second half when Yan Couto flicked Eder Militao’s long throw-in back into the area for Gabriel Martinelli to tap in.
However, Mexico refused to give up. Julian Quinones pulled one back in the 73rd minute from a superb cross by Alexis Vega, and Guillermo Martinez Ayala equalized in the 92nd minute, taking the game to extra time.
Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli (right) scored Brazil’s second goal from close range
Brazil’s young star, Endrick, proved to be the hero of the night, heading in a cross from substitute Vinicius Jr. in the 96th minute to seal the win.
Endrick, grateful for the opportunity, praised God and credited the squad and Dorival’s excellent work. He also emphasized their hard work in training and their goal to win the Copa America.
The nine-time champions will now face the U.S. in another warm-up friendly before kicking off their Copa America campaign against Costa Rica on June 24, followed by matches against Paraguay and Colombia.
The 2024 Copa America, hosted by the United States, promises an exciting tournament from June 20 to July 14.
Brazil’s victory in this friendly showcases their potential for a strong showing in the upcoming Copa America. With a mix of experienced and young talents, they will be a force to be reckoned with.