In a thrilling encounter at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, a 10-man France triumphed over Brazil 2-1 on Thursday. Kylian Mbappe and Hugo Ekitike both found the net to showcase the remarkable talent of Les Bleus’ attacking line.
Mbappe opened the scoring with a brilliant finish in the first half, but the match took a turn at the beginning of the second half when Dayot Upamecano was sent off after a VAR review for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Shortly after, Ekitike extended France’s lead to 2-0 with a skilful close-range finish, impressively dinking the ball over the goalkeeper.
Brazil exerted heavy pressure late in the match, with Bremer pulling one back to make it 2-1, but despite chances from Vinicius Junior and his teammates, they were unable to find the equalizer in what was an entertaining clash between two giants poised for strong performances at the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
France’s Offensive Brilliance Shines Through
France’s attacking setup featuring Hugo Ekitike on the left, Kylian Mbappe in the center, Ousmane Dembele on the right, and Michael Olise as the Number 10 is a formidable force. Their front four exhibited exceptional class, quickly capitalizing on any space Brazil provided, maintaining pressure and speed throughout the match. With emerging talents such as Barcola, Doue, Kolo Muani, Thuram, and Cherki available, Didier Deschamps can rely on an ultra-attacking strategy, especially in light of certain defensive uncertainties.
Final Score: Brazil 1 – 2 France
Goals: Bremer 79′; Mbappe 32′, Ekitike 65′
Bremer Scores to Narrow the Gap!
A free kick to the back post was kept alive by Casemiro, leading to Henrique’s ball across the goal where Bremer tapped in from close range. Can Brazil equalize in the dying moments?
Ekitike Doubles France’s Lead!
Michael Olise from Bayern Munich assisted Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike, who delicately finished with a cheeky dink. France extends their lead to 2-0 despite being a man down!
Upamecano Sent Off for Denying a Goalscoring Opportunity!
Brazil pushed forward, and Wesley was brought down by Upamecano near the box. Despite some Brazilian appeals for a penalty, it was decided the foul occurred just outside the area. Initially booked, Upamecano’s card was upgraded to a red after the referee consulted VAR, prompting discontent from the French bench who felt coverage was sufficient.
Maignan Saves from Henrique!
Substituted in at halftime, Henrique cut inside and unleashed a powerful shot that Maignan deflected away. The rebound fell to Casemiro, but his effort was wayward.
Casemiro’s Low Shot Goes Wide
After experiencing frustration over missed fouls, Casemiro fired a low shot that he believed touched Maignan’s hand, leading to a dissent booking after he reacted to the referee’s no-corner call.
Mbappe Opens the Scoring!
Tchaouameni made a fantastic recovery to win the ball, setting Dembele up for a counter-attack. He then played in Mbappe, who coolly lobbed Ederson to score the opening goal for France.
Martinelli’s Effort Just Misses!
Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli curled a promising shot narrowly wide of the far post, contributing to an exciting flow to the match.
Brazil Lineup
Ederson; Wesley, Bremer, Pereira, Santos; Raphinha, Casemiro, Santos, Martinelli; Cunha, Vinicius Junior
France Lineup
Maignan; Gusto, Konate, Upamecano, Hernandez; Tchaouameni, Rabiot; Dembele, Olise, Ekitike; Mbappe
Brazil Team News
Carlo Ancelotti has integrated several new players into the squad, with Premier League talents Igor Thiago (Brentford) and Rayan (Bournemouth) set to make their debuts. With Alisson sidelined due to injury, Ederson will be looking to prove himself as a pivotal player. The experienced core of Marquinhos, Danilo, Casemiro, and Fabinho adds stability, while new talents like Endrick, Joao Pedro, Andrey Santos, and Gabriel Sara are eyeing World Cup spots.
France Team News
Kylian Mbappe has overcome injury concerns and joins a star-studded squad. Other attacking options include Hugo Ekitike, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, Randal Kolo Muani, Marcus Thuram, Michael Olise, and Rayan Cherki. France’s defensive lineup does raise some questions, but their attack is laden with talent.
Match Preview: Brazil vs France
After struggling in World Cup qualifying, Brazil has shown renewed confidence under Ancelotti’s leadership, boasting improved solidity and a lineup brimming with potential. Meanwhile, France, under Didier Deschamps—who will step down post-World Cup—is eager to conclude his tenure on a high note, armed with a squad many consider the most gifted in the world.
Match Prediction: Brazil vs France
This matchup is set to deliver excitement with many offensive stars on display. Brazil 2-3 France.
Watch Brazil vs France Live
Kick-off: 4 PM ET on Thursday (March 26)
Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
TV Channel: ESPN 2, ESPN Deportes
Streaming: ESPN+