Estevao’s World Cup hopes improve as Brazil attackers falter vs France

 Brazil were defeated 2-1 by France in a friendly match before the 2026 World Cup, with Chelsea star Estevao Willian not part of the squad.

Ancelotti named Raphinha, Vinicius Jr, Matheus Cunha and Gabriel Martinelli in his front four, however none of them contributed to a goal in their defeat.

Even after France went down to 10 men, Brazil’s starting attackers couldn’t make a difference, only making things easier for Estevao this summer when it comes to nailing down a starting place.

He is facing serious competition. Both Raphinha and Vinicius are considered two of the best wingers in world football.

With that been said, it is the Chelsea man who has delivered more often on the big stage over the last 12 months. He has five goals in 11 appearances for his country.

Brazil are a nation who have relied on generational players. Whether that be Pele, Ronaldo or Neymar. They need someone new to step up, and that could well be Estevao.

While Estevao didn’t feature, Andrey Santos did start in the heart of midfield for Brazil, playing alongside Casemiro.

Joao Pedro can count himself unlucky that he didn’t start, and he didn’t have time to have an impact on proceedings after his second half introduction.

The highlight Chelsea player was Malo Gusto, who did start the game at right-back for France.

Up against Vinicius, the Blues star won that battle, and did his own hopes of regular minutes at the World Cup no harm at all.