Endrick stakes Brazil claim after Egypt winner as World Cup opener debate intensifies | OneFootball

Endrick strengthened his case to start for Brazil at the World Cup, scoring in a 2-1 win over Egypt and reigniting debate over the No nine for the Morocco opener. According to L'Équipe, the 19-year-old has real momentum.

After a lively cameo in the 6-2 defeat of Panama on 31 May, the left-footer scored with his first chance against Egypt and was named man of the match.

Carlo Ancelotti had leaned towards Matheus Cunha to combine with Raphinha and Vinicius Jr, though the Mancunian has one goal and two assists in 23 caps. He also values IgorThiago, a classic No nine with 25 goals in 40 for Brentford, who missed two clear openings.

Luiz Felipe Scolari said that had IgorThiago scored there would be no debate and he would be the No nine, countering Felipe Melo’s belief that Endrick will start between Vinicius Jr and Raphinha.

GloboEsporte gave him eight out of 10 against Egypt. He has rediscovered his touch at a timely moment, having first scored for Brazil against Mexico before the 2024 Copa América and now on four goals in 17 caps. Casemiro, who had earlier said he was not yet part of the group, celebrated with him and doused him with water.

He said God guided him to Lyon where he met a wonderful staff, that he is back with the Seleção where he always wanted to be. He added he is living his dream, but that it is only just beginning.

Source: L'Équipe