Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario believes Endrick will get his chance to shine for the five-time world champions at the 2026 World Cup tournament.
The Real Madrid forward was left on the bench in Brazil’s 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening clash last weekend.
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti opted to start with Igor Thiago upfront and brought in Matheus Cunha in search of a winner in the second half.
Brazil eventually failed to grab a winner, with the head coach eventually getting the stick for leaving the 19-year-old on the bench.
“I am sure he will get his opportunity. He will come on at some point, but right now he is the third option in attack. There is Igor Thiago, there is Matheus Cunha, and then it’s him”, Ronaldo said.
“I think he would have come on in the game (against Morocco) if it weren’t for the substitution where I think Bruno Guimaraes asked to come off.”
Ismael Saibari put Morocco ahead in the 21st minute with a superb goal. He received a pass from Brahim Diaz and dinked the ball over Alisson in the Brazil goal to put his side ahead.
However, Vinicius Junior brought Brazil back on level terms just a few minutes later with a well taken strike that flew into the net past Yaccine Bounou.
“That’s an important detail. Because Ancelotti was definitely going for the win. But listen, he is ready, forget it, he’s ready”, Ronaldo added.
“He is competing out there with other great players. He’s on par with Matheus Cunha from Manchester United, and Igor Thiago was a top scorer in England, so we are well-served right now.”
Brazil will now face Haiti in their second match in the early hours of Saturday, hoping to seal their first win of the tournament.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
