Despite Tunisia’s resilient defense throughout the match, Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil struggled to find rhythm. The team lost possession through off-target shots and poor passes, and Lucas Paqueta’s penalty miss was a letdown. Consequently, Estevao and Vinicius shared the spotlight as the match ended in Brazil 1-1 Tunisia draw. Brazil arrived in Lille, France, on Tuesday night with the confidence from their recent win against Senegal, but Tunisia managed to hold their ground this time.
Brazil dominated possession with 73% and took 22 shots, but only three were on target, while Tunisia had just seven shots with two on target. The lone goal for Brazil came from Estevao Willian’s brilliant penalty after falling behind in the 23rd minute due to Hazem Masturi’s goal amid a chaotic play. Despite Brazil’s efforts, including another penalty opportunity and multiple shots by Paqueta, they settled for the draw. The loss of rhythm is a significant concern for Ancelotti and his five-time world champion team ahead of the World Cup.
Brazil 1-1 Tunisia
From the start, Brazil kept pressure on Tunisia’s defense but struggled to score until Masturi capitalized on a long pass in the penalty box in the 23rd minute for a corner kick goal. Rodrigo and Vinicius sought to equalize, with Rodrigo coming close on a free kick saved by Tunisia’s goalkeeper. Brazil earned a penalty from a handball in their box in the 44th minute, which Estevao converted with a powerful left-footed shot to level the score.
Estevao, aged 18, marked his fifth goal in six recent matches for Brazil, becoming the nation’s top scorer this year despite playing mainly as an attacking midfielder or forward. Brazil maintained their aggression after halftime, but opponent defenses blocked many of their attempts. Eder Militao left the game injured, joining Gabriel Magalhaes on the injury list, which raises concerns for Brazil’s defense going forward. (Source)
Ancelotti gave substitute Vitor Roque his debut, who earned a penalty in the 76th minute, but Paqueta’s failed spot-kick dashed Brazil’s hopes for victory ending a match that revealed both promise and challenges as Brazil prepares for the World Cup.
