Carlo Ancelotti can consider the recent match a success. Despite being a friendly, the Brazil national team crushed South Korea 5-0, once again declaring their ambition for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Not only the result, but also the team’s performance left fans with positive impressions.
That evening, the Brazilians honored the memory of Pelé, marking what would have been his 85th birthday. The players took to the field wearing a commemorative emblem, and the coaching staff selected an attacking formation with a clear focus on Real Madrid players. Captain Casemiro, now playing for Manchester United, supported the defensive line, which also included Militão, Rodrygo, and Vinícius. Despite the risky tactics, the team acted as a cohesive unit, especially in pressing and movement across the field.
From the very first minutes, Vinícius and Rodrygo posed a constant threat to the opposition’s goal, and by the 13th minute Estevão opened the scoring, finishing off a sharp pass from Rodrygo via Bruno Guimarães. Casemiro could have doubled the lead, but his goal was disallowed for offside. The Brazilians showcased quick combinations and broke into the Korean penalty area with ease. In one episode, Vinícius set up Rodrygo in a scoring position, but the goalkeeper saved his team.
The second goal was scored just before halftime. Rodrygo, returning to the national team after a long absence, took advantage of Casemiro’s pass and sent the ball into the far corner. This goal was his first for the national side since September 2024.
After the break, the Brazilians continued to dominate. In the 48th minute, Estevão capitalized on a defensive error and finished a one-on-one chance. A minute later, Rodrygo scored his second goal following a quick attack involving Vinícius and Casemiro. This was Rodrygo’s eighth goal for the national team; the last time he scored twice was in January in the Champions League.
In the second half, the tempo dropped slightly. The South Koreans managed their first shot on target only in the 66th minute, but it posed no real threat. In the 77th minute, Vinícius finished off a counterattack, getting past both defender and goalkeeper to set the final score. He was then replaced by Richarlison, leaving the field visibly pleased.
The Brazilian team once again delivered an entertaining performance, giving fans reason for optimism. The question now is whether they can maintain this level of play in the future.
