Endrick strike gives Brazil victory over England at Wembley
Endrick, Brazil’s young teenage prodigy, scored late to send England to defeat in a scrappy friendly at Wembley.
The game appeared to be heading for a draw until Vinicius Junior broke through, the 17-year-old replacement finishing easily from close range despite England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford’s save with 10 minutes remaining.
It capped an unsatisfactory night for England. Their defence, Harry Maguire in particular, looked vulnerable as they lost captain Kyle Walker to a hamstring injury early on.
England manager Gareth Southgate gave a debut to Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon from the start, while Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa and Manchester United’s teenage midfield prodigy Kobbie Mainoo won their first caps as substitutes.
The quality of the game was reflected in the experimental nature of the sides, with Brazil having the better of the first-half chances. Ollie Watkins blazed over from close range with England’s best opportunity while Raphinha wasted Brazil’s biggest chance as he was off target following Maguire’s poor backpass.
England’s star man Jude Bellingham was subjected to heavy physical treatment throughout until he was substituted, before Endrick sent the large contingent of Brazil fans into wild celebrations with his winner.
It was England’s first defeat at Wembley in 21 games, since they were beaten by Denmark in the Uefa Nations League in October 2020.
(BBC)