Brazil defeated Senegal 2-0 in an international friendly at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium on Saturday. Goals from teenager Estevao and veteran captain Casemiro secured the win for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, marking the first time in history that the five-time world champion has beaten the West African nation.
Brazil’s attack, which featured a combination of Estevao, Matheus Cunha, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Jr, dominated the first half in North London. The opening goal came in the 28th minute from 18-year-old Estevao. The Chelsea starlet capitalized on a loose ball on the right side of the attack and produced a clinical finish across Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy into the far corner. It was his fourth goal in just 10 appearances for the national team.
Captain Casemiro, 33, quickly doubled Brazil’s advantage just seven minutes later in the 35th minute. The Manchester United midfielder beautifully controlled a free-kick delivered by Rodrygo to the back post and curled the ball into the top corner. The goal withstood a VAR review for a potential offside challenge.
Senegal had an opportunity to pull one back shortly after the break when Iliman Ndiaye hit the outside of the post following sloppy play by Brazil goalkeeper Ederson, who was slow to clear a pass.
The victory was tempered by an injury concern for defender Gabriel. The Arsenal center-back pulled up off the ball with a groin injury just before the hour mark and had to be substituted. Coach Carlo Ancelotti later regretted the incident and provided an update: "Bad? I don't know. He had an injury in his adductor. The medical staff has to check tomorrow. We are really sorry for this, really disappointed."
Brazil, who had secured their World Cup passage despite a shock loss to Japan in the previous international break, maintained a clean sheet against the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations champions. Brazil will continue to evaluate their squad in a friendly against Tunisia in Lille on Tuesday, while Senegal, who seal their own World Cup spot by beating Mauritania last month, will head to Turkey for their final friendly before next month’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.