Eighteen-year-old Chelsea winger Estevao scored twice as Brazil delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over fellow World Cup qualifiers South Korea in a friendly on Friday.
Playing in wet conditions in Seoul, South Korea’s captain Son Heung-min made his 137th appearance, setting a national record for the men’s team. However, the spotlight quickly shifted to Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil, who led 2-0 at halftime thanks to goals from Estevao and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, before dominating the second half.
Estevao opened the scoring in the 13th minute, finishing from close range after a precise through ball from Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. It marked his second goal in just eight appearances for Brazil, highlighting his potential as a rising star ahead of next year’s World Cup in North America.
Brazil’s attack looked dangerous throughout, doubling their lead just before halftime when Rodrygo unleashed a powerful shot after skillfully breaking through the South Korean defense.
The visitors fielded a strong lineup, with Manchester United’s Matheus Cunha spearheading the attack, supported by the dynamic trio of Estevao, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Junior.
The quality of Brazil’s frontline shone again early in the second half, with both Estevao and Rodrygo scoring within minutes to seal the team’s dominance.
Vinicius Junior added a spectacular fifth goal with 13 minutes remaining, showcasing dazzling footwork on a long ball from Cunha as he sprinted nearly half the length of the pitch before calmly finishing at close range.
Brazil will next face Japan away on Tuesday, while South Korea hosts Paraguay.
AFP
