1 Apr 2026

Reserves shine as Brazil beat Croatia ahead of final World Cup squad

Brazil’s reserves stepped up in a 3-1 win over Croatia in the United States, in the team’s last match before Carlo Ancelotti names his final World Cup squad. There is still time before the May 18 announcement, but players like Danilo Santos, Luiz Henrique and Igor Thiago made a strong case.

Below is a breakdown of the match, with key stats and a look at who is gaining or losing ground in the race for a place at the World Cup.

Changes bring more energy

With six changes from the team that lost 2-1 to France, Brazil looked more aggressive and mobile in the first half. Luiz Henrique was one of the main threats, winning two yellow cards from defenders and creating chances.

Danilo Santos added energy in midfield and helped drive the team forward. Brazil created enough chances to keep Dominik Livaković busy, and the goalkeeper finished with a 7.3 Sofascore rating.

Lineups provided by Sofascore

Regular starters also improved. Vinícius Júnior and Matheus Cunha were more involved and combined for the opening goal.

In stoppage time, after a cleared corner, Cunha found Vinícius Jr with a long pass. He beat three defenders and set up Danilo Santos, who finished into the top corner. Danilo started the move and finished it, earning man of the match with an 8.2 rating.

Endrick and Igor Thiago make the difference

The second half was slower, with many changes from both teams. Croatia still found a way to equalise, as Lovro Majer took advantage of a long ball and a poor decision from Bento to make it 1-1.

Brazil reacted quickly. In the 85th minute, Endrick, who had just come on, won a penalty after a quick run into the box.

Igor Thiago took the spot-kick and scored to put Brazil back in front. It was his first goal for the national team.
Soon after, the two combined again. Igor Thiago won the ball in midfield and passed to Endrick, who drove forward and set up Gabriel Martinelli to score and make it 3-1.

Ancelotti happy with the reserves

After the match, Carlo Ancelotti praised the players who took their chance.

“I’m very happy with the younger players. They took their opportunity and gave us more options. Thiago did well, Endrick did well, Danilo did well,” he said.

Igor Thiago also spoke about his first goal.

“I want to thank the coach for the opportunity. Scoring my first goal for Brazil is unforgettable,” he said.

Who is gaining ground?

With just over 45 days until the final squad is announced, the race is still open. Club form and fitness will matter. Neymar could still return to the picture if he performs well for Santos.

The core of the team remains the same, with players like Casemiro, Vinícius Jr and Marquinhos in strong positions. But there are more options now.

Danilo Santos, Igor Thiago, Luiz Henrique and Endrick helped their chances with good performances. Endrick, in particular, made an impact off the bench.

On the other hand, Bento may have lost ground after his mistake on Croatia’s goal and a low 5.9 rating. Alisson and Ederson are still the main goalkeepers. João Pedro also had a quiet game but remains in contention.

Player stats provided by Sofascore

Gabriel Martinelli is close to securing his place. He scored, had a 7.5 rating and is in good form.

In defense, Danilo is a safe pick thanks to his versatility. The left-back position, however, is still open, with younger players getting chances to prove themselves.

A different ending this time

This win also had some emotional value. Brazil were knocked out by Croatia in the 2022 World Cup after conceding late, but this time they responded well.

“In the last World Cup we conceded late, but this time we reacted,” said Igor Thiago.

Even if it was only a friendly, the result builds confidence before the tournament.

Brazil end this international break with more options and more competition for places. But the loss to France also showed there is still work to do if they want to fight for the title.

Brazil’s schedule before the World Cup

After the final squad announcement on May 18, Brazil will play two more friendlies:
·Brazil vs Panama (Maracanã)
·Brazil vs Egypt (United States)

These matches will be the last step before the tournament. Brazil are in Group C and will play:

·June 13, 2026: Brazil vs Morocco
·June 19, 2026: Brazil vs Haiti
·June 24, 2026: Brazil vs Scotland

The latest stories