Brazil’s coach, Dorival Junior, made a strategic decision to rest key players like Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Raphinha, opting instead to field a team of younger, less experienced players. This move paid off as Brazil took an early lead against Mexico, with Andreas Pereira scoring in the 5th minute from a Savio pass.
Despite Mexico dominating possession in the first half, they struggled to create clear-cut chances and test the stand-in goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, who replaced the injured Ederson due to a fractured eye socket.
The game’s momentum shifted further in Brazil’s favor early in the second half. A long throw-in from Eder Militao found Yan Couto, who cleverly flicked the ball back into the path of Gabriel Martinelli, doubling their lead.
However, Mexico refused to give up and staged a remarkable comeback. Julian Quinones reduced the deficit in the 73rd minute, finishing off a superb cross from Alexis Vega. In the dying moments of the game, Guillermo Martinez Ayala scored the equalizer in the 92nd minute, sending the Mexican side into a frenzy.
Just when it seemed like the game was heading for a draw, Brazil’s young star, Endrick, rose to the occasion. He headed home a cross from Vinicius Jr., who had come off the bench, securing a last-gasp victory for Brazil.
Endrick, the 17-year-old prodigy, expressed his gratitude after the match, saying, “I’m very grateful to God for another opportunity to score for the national team. Thanks to the squad and Dorival’s excellent work. We trained well, and I hope we can work even harder because our goal is to win the Copa America.”
Brazil, the nine-time champions, will now turn their attention to their upcoming friendly against the United States on Wednesday, followed by their Copa America opener against Costa Rica on June 24th. They will then face Paraguay and Colombia in their group stage matches, aiming to lift the coveted trophy once again.
The Copa America, a prestigious tournament held every four years, will take place in the United States this time around, from June 20th to July 14th.
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