Brazil scored twice late to beat Croatia 3-1 in the World Cup set-up

Brazil beat Croatia 3-1 in a World Cup warm-up in Orlando on Tuesday, with Igor Thiago converting a late penalty and Gabriel Martinelli adding an injury-time goal to seal the win.

The match at Camping World Stadium was the last chance for Brazil to assess its options before coach Carlo Ancelotti named his World Cup squad, while it marked the first meeting with Croatia since the quarter-final defeat in Qatar 2022.

«We know that the process has been difficult for everyone. We know that we have to improve many things, but we are a powerhouse of players,» Casemiro told Brazilian broadcaster Globo.

«We will come back strong and give everything at the World Cup… We know that expectations are always very high for the national team and we have to rise to that challenge.»

Brazil vs Croatia – HIGHLIGHTS

Brazil, who lost 2-1 to France last week, dominated possession from the start and created their first clear chance in the 20th minute when Danilo’s effort was blocked by Dominik Livakovic.

The Croatian goalkeeper denied Joao Pedro with a low save before making an excellent stop to keep Matheus Cunha out as Brazil continued to press.

Croatia offered little response, with Andrej Kramaric’s tame effort comfortably collected by Bento, who later made a fine save to deny Luka Vuskovic’s header.

Brazil finally applied the pressure shortly before half time. Matheus Cunha released Vinicius Jr, who drove past three defenders before setting up Danilo for a composed first finish.

Croatia had more possession after the break and equalized in the 84th minute when Lovro Majer slipped between the defenders to meet Toni Fruk’s cross and guide the ball past goalkeeper Bento.

The equalizer sent Brazil into action and four minutes later they restored the lead when Thiago converted from the penalty spot after Endrick was brought down in the penalty area.

Martinelli then sealed the win in stoppage time with a low finish.

“To be here today is the greatest achievement of my life,” said Thiago, after earning his first call-up to the national team following an excellent season with Brentford.

«I want to thank the coach. I know how difficult it is with so many quality players in my position.»

Brazil will play a friendly against Egypt in June before the World Cup season starts in Group C against Morocco. Croatia have two more friendlies, against Belgium and Slovenia, before facing England in the Group L opener.

The World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19 and is jointly organized by the US, Canada and Mexico.

Published on April 1, 2026