Estevao, Casemiro on Target in Brazil’s Triumph Against Senegal

Fielding a dazzling front line of Estevao, Matheus Cunha, Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior, Brazil dominated the opening 45 minutes and repeatedly carved through Senegal’s defensive structure.

Manchester United forward Cunha came closest early on, rising well to meet a cross only for his header to thunder off the crossbar. The pressure continued to mount — and Brazil’s breakthrough soon followed.

Estevao strikes again

In the 28th minute, Chelsea’s Estevao— already one of world football’s most hyped emerging talents — seized upon a fortunate deflection on the right side of the penalty area. The 18-year-old needed no second invitation, driving a clinical low finish across Edouard Mendy and into the far corner.

The goal was his fourth in just 10 appearances for the Seleção, another reminder of why he is expected to be a breakout star at the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Casemiro rolls back the years

Brazil doubled their advantage seven minutes later through captain Casemiro, who at 33 continues to deliver for his country. The midfielder controlled a beautifully weighted Rodrygo free-kick at the back post before bending a composed finish into the top corner.

It capped off a first half in which Brazil looked fluid, confident and firmly in control.

Senegal show signs of life but lack cutting edge

Senegal improved after the interval and should have halved the deficit when Iliman Ndiaye pounced on a mistake by goalkeeper Ederson. With the goal at his mercy, however, the Marseille forward could only clip the outside of the post.

Star forward Sadio Mané, twice named African Footballer of the Year, struggled to influence proceedings and was substituted with 15 minutes remaining as both managers made a raft of changes.

Both teams look ahead to the World Cup

Brazil qualified for the 2026 World Cup despite a disappointing fifth-place finish in South American qualifying — their worst in decades — but Ancelotti’s squad looks to be gathering momentum at the right time.

Senegal, champions of Africa in 2021, sealed their own World Cup place last month with a decisive victory over Mauritania and will hope the return of key players and sharper attacking form can lift them before next summer.