Mbappe and Ekitike score as France defeat Brazil in Boston friendly match

The two teams clashed in an exhibition match at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, offering a final opportunity to test tactics before the upcoming summer competition, with both coaches opting for their strongest squads to refine their strategies.

Raphinha got an initial chance after receiving a long pass over the French backline, yet the Barcelona player fired his shot well above the crossbar.

The match unfolded at a high tempo, as Brazils front four relentlessly pressured the French defence. However, pushing numerous players upfront exposed the Selecao at the back, allowing France to counter effectively in a thrilling back and forth game.

Opportunities emerged for both sides, with Gabriel Martinelli narrowly missing the left upright after shooting from just outside the penalty area.

France capitalised soon after the 30 minute mark. Ousmane Dembele delivered a precise through ball to Kylian Mbappe, who burst forward, and the Real Madrid star displayed excellent poise with a delicate lob over Ederson.

The intensity suggested anything but a casual friendly, as both teams battled fiercely in front of a full crowd.

Brazil nearly equalised early in the second half when Matheus Cunha found Martinelli inside the area, but his attempt was stopped, followed quickly by Luiz Henrique cutting in from the flank and striking forcefully, only for Mike Maignan to make a superb save.

Tension escalated when Henrique was fouled by Dayot Upamecano near the penalty area during a breakaway. The referee, Guido Gonzalez Jr, first issued a yellow card to the Bayern centre back, but after reviewing the incident on the sidelines, he changed it to a red.

With France reduced to ten players, Brazil dominated attacks towards the French goal, yet they were hit on the break again as Michael Olise advanced and played in Hugo Ekitike, who finished neatly over Ederson.

Under Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil responded late in the game when Bremer reacted in the box to redirect Henrique's wayward pass into the net with about 15 minutes left.

Even with several substitutions from the Brazilian coach, the Selecao could not force a tie. Ancelotti needs improvements from his squad in the three friendlies left before the World Cup, whereas Didier Deschamps can be satisfied with Frances display, particularly after losing a player.