Real Madrid-bound Palmeira teenage forward Endrick became the youngest goalscorer in international football as Brazil edged out England in a rollercoaster international friendly at Wembley on Saturday, March 23, 2024.
It was a cracker as two footballing giants locked horns in a much-anticipated international friendly to settle scores and bragging rights.
While it was just a friendly, the match proved a real test for England as they prepare to challenge for the 2024 European Championship in June 2024.
It was a disappointing outing for Gareth Southgate but a brilliant start to life for Brazil manager Dorivial Junior, who courageously fielded five debutants against the star-studded England side.
While Dorivial Junior edged out the Three Lions with his young squad at Wembley, Gareth Southgate could still be cut some slacks for the underwhelming show against the South American giants. Southgate missed his finest legs in the game.
Bayern Munich attacking sensation Harry Kane was not fielded due to his injury. Bukayo Saka, who is leading Arsenal’s goalscoring chart this season, withdrew from the squad due to injury.
Hence, Southgate was certainly set to struggle bundling Brazil’s defense with his make-shift attacking options featuring Ollie Watkins.
Brazil were the better side in the first half which was largely end-to-end before England took control of proceedings in the second half.
The game nearly ended barren with both sides unable to break the deadlock. Ollie Watkins had a chance to fire England into the lead but blew his effort wide off target. Lucas Paqueta hit the woodwork for Brazil in a near-miss.
With 10 minutes left, it would take 17-year-old substitute Endrick to separate the tie after he poked home a rebound to give Brazil the lead.
The goal was enough to hand the Selecao an unlikely victory at Wembley and condemn the Three Lions to a shock defeat.
Gareth Southgate will hope to return the team to winning ways when they take on Belgium at same venue on March 26.
