Brazil net two goals late to defeat Croatia in friendly match

Brazil net two goals late to defeat Croatia in friendly match
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This match offered both coaches their final chance to assess their teams before the season concludes, as certain players might be fighting for spots in the upcoming FIFA World Cup this summer.

Dominik Livakovic shone brightly during the opening 45 minutes, blocking Danilo’s attempt and then stopping Joao Pedro from netting what could have been his debut goal for Brazil up close. The keeper also deflected Matheus Cunha’s curling shot from outside the penalty area, yet for all his efforts, he was unable to stop Croatia falling behind prior to the interval.

Vinicius Junior spearheaded Brazil’s quick counters before passing across for Danilo to volley into the top corner. This came just before Luka Vuskovic nodded directly at Bento from Luka Modric’s set-piece, marking Croatia’s clearest opening as they entered the break.

Zlatko Dalic’s side kept pressing forward, forcing Bento to make a stop on Andrej Kramaric’s long-range effort right after the resumption.

As anticipated, Brazil introduced numerous substitutions in the latter half, including withdrawing their goalscorer Danilo alongside several prominent players. Following this, Croatia controlled the ball and created most opportunities, with Nikola Moro being the next to test from afar, his shot missing the target narrowly.

And their persistence finally bore fruit when they levelled the score through Lovro Majer, who directed Toni Fruk’s defence-splitting delivery beyond the advancing Bento.

Yet Brazil quickly earned a prime chance to regain the lead when Endrick was brought down inside the box, earning the Selecao a spot-kick, and on only his second cap for the national side, Igor Thiago converted coolly, deceiving Livaković completely.

Carlo Ancelotti’s squad then sealed the triumph thanks to Gabriel Martinelli, who fired Endrick’s through-ball into the far corner. This marks just Brazil’s second victory in their last five outings (D1, L2), providing ideal momentum heading into this summer’s tournament.

On the other hand, while Dalic may rue the outcome, his squad showed strong play overall, and their recent performances indicate they could prove formidable in North America come June and July.