Spain and Brazil drew 3-3 in a thrilling friendly in Madrid. The match had everything: a comeback from the Seleção after being behind in the result twice, Endrick’s first goal at the Santiago Bernabéu, controversial decisions by the referee in two penalties in favor of the Europeans, and a message against racism focused on Vinicius, following the insults he received in LaLiga with Real Madrid.
Organized under the slogan “One skin, one identity,” the clash promised to be a great match between two world champions and did not disappoint. In the lineup set by Dorival Júnior, the big news was the captaincy for Vini, and the rest of the formation was the same as the one that took the field last Saturday in the 1-0 victory against England at Wembley.
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The opening goal was scored by Lamine Yamal: he entered the area, saw João Gomes stretch his leg to try to take the ball away, and fell dramatically. Portuguese referee Antonio Nobre saw a foul, and at 12 minutes, Rodri converted it into a goal from the penalty spot.
FC Barcelona winger and Nico Williams from Athletic Club de Bilbao became the best attacking options for the Europeans. But it was Dani Olmo who, with another great individual play, cut through three opponents and skillfully placed the ball into the net at the far post to make it 2-0 in the 36th minute.
The reduction in the lead came partly due to goalkeeper Unai Simón’s mistake in leaving a pass short on the build-up, and the other part was Rodrygo’s merit for pressing high and having the vision to shoot over. It was the 40th minute for a bit of relief for Dorival Júnior’s team, who went into halftime closer to equalizing.
That parity arrived in the second half through Endrick, the hero in the victory at Wembley. The Palmeiras forward came on after halftime for Raphinha and five minutes later scored his first goal at the Santiago Bernabéu, a foreshadowing of what will surely be his career from mid-year when he wears Real Madrid’s uniform.
The 17-year-old gem capitalized on a rebound after a half-clearance from a corner kick. Without waiting for the ball to drop, he connected with his left foot and bulged the net.
One of the most emotional moments came 20 minutes before the end when Vinicius left the field to applause from the entire stadium, being replaced by Douglas Luiz.
The last half-hour was dominated by possession for the Europeans, although with few chances, all of which were dealt with very well by Bento. The referee made his second controversial decision of the night by awarding another penalty for a clash of feet between Lucas Beraldo and Dani Carvajal. Rodri once again converted from the spot.
Another penalty, this time clearer, gave the pentacampeão (five-time champion) the equalizer in stoppage time. Lucas Paquetá took on the responsibility to secure the final result.
