Rodrygo shines, Vinicius is injured, and Endrick makes his debut in Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Colombia

Brazil lost their second World Cup Qualifying match in a row and are now winless in three matches following Colombia’s comeback victory. Brazil took an early lead after Vini Jr set up Martinelli for a first-half goal, but Luis Diaz’s two goals in the second half turned the tide. Real Madrid should concentrate on three players: Vini, Rodrygo, and 17-year-old debutant Endrick.

Fernando Diniz, Brazil’s interim head coach, chose to start Vinicius and Rodrygo up top, in roles and positions similar to those they play for Real Madrid. This allowed the coach to introduce Martinelli down the left and Raphinha down the right, bolstering the offense in Neymar’s absence.

Vinicius Junior:

The 23-year-old was hoping to redeem himself after a string of poor performances in Brazil. He got off to a fast start, making dangerous runs in behind the Colombian defense. Dribbled through the left half space and combined with Martinelli to score the night’s first and only goal for Brazil. An assist and an encouraging 20 minutes under his belt. Brazil appeared to be on a roll at the time, with the new front four posing a threat. It wouldn’t last long. The Real Madrid player collapsed with an injury, his left leg near his hamstring and thigh area clenched, indicating a problem. He was replaced after 27 minutes, raising concerns that the Brazilian could be out for two months.

Rodrygo:

Started in a right-sided striker role, the same as he had for Real Madrid, but moved to the left after Vini was replaced. Rodrygo, who took the #10 jersey in place of Neymar, was Brazil’s best player on the night and their most creative outlet. Rodrygo had 1 big chance created and 3 key passes while floating from right to left and back again. Surprisingly, Diniz replaced Rodrygo with Brazil leading 1-0 after 69 minutes. Everything went downhill after Rodrygo left the match. Luis Diaz scored in the 75th and 79th minutes to secure a 2-1 victory.

Endrick:

The 17-year-old became Brazil’s fourth youngest player to make his debut. Was brought on in the final ten minutes to try to salvage something from an erratic offense. Diniz appeared flustered and was hurling players to the left and right to trey and change the game. Endrick’s game state was far from ideal. Endrick looked solid in his limited minutes, despite the challenge. Off the ball, he is active and always looking to combine with teammates. He played fearlessly and did not appear overawed by the occasion.