Brazil delivered a stunning statement of intent ahead of the 2026 World Cup, sweeping past Son Heung-min’s South Korea with a ruthless 5-0 victory in a rain-soaked friendly in Seoul on Friday.
Chelsea’s teenage sensation Estevao and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo both struck twice, while Vinicius Junior added a late fifth to seal a commanding performance from Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
The Selecao set the tone early when Bruno Guimaraes split the Korean defence with a perfectly weighted pass for Estevao, who coolly slotted home inside 14 minutes.
Casemiro thought he had doubled the lead moments later, only for his effort to be ruled offside. Brazil did find their second before the interval, though, as Rodrygo arrowed a precise low shot into the bottom corner in the 41st minute.
After the break, a misjudged clearance from Kim Min-jae gifted Estevao another chance and the 18-year-old made no mistake, tucking home his second of the night.
Minutes later, another defensive lapse allowed Rodrygo to match Estevao’s brace with an almost identical finish into the same corner.
Vinicius then put the exclamation mark on Brazil’s five-star performance, racing from halfway on a blistering counter-attack before calmly slotting past Jo Hyeon-woo to cap a scintillating display.
Speaking after the game, Rodrygo acknowledged the team’s progress under Ancelotti and praised his teammates for their collective efforts in ensuring a commanding victory.
“I think it’s always important to maintain a solid defence where everyone helps, and little by little the attack starts to work — that’s what happened today,” he said.
“I was told to treat these friendlies like World Cup finals. Everything went well, and I’m happy with the goals, but even happier to see how the team is evolving. I think we’re on a great path to the World Cup.”
Brazil have already secured their place at the Mundial and will be aiming to win a record-extending sixth title when the tournament kicks off next summer.
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
