Chelsea teenager Estevao scored his first goal for Brazil as the five-time world champions beat Chile 3-0 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier on Friday night. The match was played at the historic Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro in front of a packed crowd.
Brazil dominated from the very start and showed their intent to control the game. They even thought they had scored inside the opening five minutes. Casemiro headed in a freekick from Raphinha, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a quick check.
The breakthrough finally came in the 38th minute. Raphinha fired a shot from inside the box that was saved by the Chile goalkeeper but spilled awkwardly across the goal line. Waiting at the far post, Estevao reacted with speed and scored with an overhead kick from close range. It was a dream moment for the youngster, who is regarded as one of Brazil’s brightest talents.
Brazil doubled the lead in the 72nd minute. Just after coming on as a substitute, Lucas Paqueta found the net with a simple header. Luiz Henrique created the chance by breaking into the box and sending a fine cross toward the West Ham midfielder, who made no mistake.
Only four minutes later, Bruno Guimaraes sealed the victory with Brazil’s third goal. Henrique’s shot from inside the area hit the crossbar and bounced back into the path of Guimaraes, who calmly finished into the empty net.
The win pushed Brazil up to second place in the CONMEBOL standings, giving them a strong position in the race to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Chile, meanwhile, had already been eliminated from contention. Their loss in Rio marked their 11th defeat in 17 qualifiers, a campaign that has left fans deeply disappointed.
Under coach Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil looked confident, organized, and full of energy. With young players like Estevao stepping up alongside experienced names, Brazil showed why they remain one of the strongest sides in world football.
