Brazil’s final tune-up for the World Cup was a success. The five-time world champions defeated World Cup participant Egypt 2-1 in their last preparation match before the tournament.
Bruno Guimaraes (7th minute) gave coach Carlo Ancelotti’s team an early lead, before Mostafa Zico (11th minute) equalized. The substitute Endrick scored the winning goal after halftime (52nd minute).
This victory in Cleveland, USA, was Brazil’s second in a matter of days, following their recent 6-2 win against Panama. Ancelotti stated he has a «clear idea» for the starting lineup for the World Cup opener against Morocco on June 13th, and he explicitly praised the starting forwards Vinicius Junior and Raphinha.
Neymar Works on Comeback — Wesley Substituted in Tears
Superstar Neymar was not deployed as planned due to his calf injury; the forward is working on his comeback at the World Cup headquarters, The Ridge, located about 50 km outside New York. Meanwhile, concerns have arisen for right-back Wesley, who had to be substituted in tears after just fifteen minutes against Egypt due to groin problems.
For the North Africans, former Eintracht Frankfurt player Omar Marmoush started. Superstar Mohamed Salah was brought on at halftime.