Cole Palmer claims Marc Cucurella would make the best striker

 Chelsea interviewed Cole Palmer as part of their ‘lifting the lid’ segment and asked him the question of ‘which defender or midfielder would make the best striker?’.

His response was a slightly surprising one.

“Probably Cucurella because he scores the most goals out of the defenders.”

Despite Palmer’s claim, Cucurella has actually only scored one goal in the current campaign, with Malo Gusto and Trevoh Chalobah leading the way with three goals a piece.

Chelsea enters the 2026 summer transfer window facing a familiar dilemma at centre-forward. Despite spending £30 million on Liam Delap, he’s struggled for consistent output under Liam Rosenior. Delap, specifically, has been linked with a move to Newcastle United after failing to replicate his Ipswich form.

As mentioned, the club is already preparing for the arrival of Emmanuel Emegha from sister-club Strasbourg. The 23-year-old Dutchman, who captained Strasbourg to European qualification, is expected to be integrated directly into the first-team squad.

Simultaneously, Chelsea has secured Kazakh wonderkid Dastan Satpaev from FC Kairat. And despite him only being 17-years-old, Rosenior has plans to integrate him this summer.

Gittens tipped for big things under Rosenior as he nears retunr from Injury

Chelsea head coach **Liam Rosenior** has expressed strong confidence in young winger **Jamie Gittens**, tipping the 21-year-old to achieve “big things” once he completes his recovery from a hamstring injury and returns to full fitness.

Gittens posted a photo on his Instagram story showing him running on the treadmill, usually soon leading to a return to work on the grass.

Gittens, who joined Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2025, has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring tear during the Blues’ Premier League victory over West Ham in late January. After a recent minor setback that delayed his comeback, the England youth international has resumed training and is now edging closer to a first-team return.

Speaking ahead of recent fixtures, Rosenior highlighted Gittens’ talent, work ethic, and potential to become a key player in his squad. The manager, who has emphasised careful management of the youngster’s recovery to avoid further issues, believes the winger possesses the qualities to make a significant impact in the Premier League and beyond.

“Jamie has all the attributes to do big things here,” Rosenior said. “He’s technically excellent, quick, direct, and he understands what we want in terms of pressing and attacking play. We’re not rushing him because we want him back stronger and ready for the long term. When he returns, I’m confident he’ll show everyone exactly why we brought him to Chelsea.”

Gittens has already shown flashes of his ability in his early appearances for the club, contributing goals and assists while adapting to Rosenior’s high-intensity, possession-based style. His return is expected to provide welcome competition and depth on the wings, especially as Chelsea push for a strong finish to the 2025/26 season and prepare for the challenges ahead.

The club has been cautious with Gittens’ rehabilitation following the initial tear and subsequent setback during training in mid-March. Recent updates indicate he is progressing well, building match fitness, and could be available for selection in the coming weeks.

Rosenior added: “We’ve seen how talented Jamie is. He’s got that special quality that can excite fans and change games. Our job now is to integrate him carefully so he can go on and fulfil his huge potential under this project.”

Chelsea fans have expressed excitement at the prospect of Gittens’ return, with many viewing the former Dortmund prospect as a long-term solution on the flanks alongside established stars.

Ecuador Manager Sebastián Beccacece Urges FIFA to Overturn Moises Caicedo’s Suspension for 2026 World Cup Opener

Ecuador national team head coach **Sebastián Beccacece** has made a passionate appeal to FIFA, calling on the world governing body to review and overturn the one-match suspension of star midfielder **Moises Caicedo**, enabling the Chelsea player to feature in La Tri’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup opener.

Caicedo, 24, received a red card for two yellow cards during Ecuador’s 1-0 qualifying victory over Argentina in September 2025. The dismissal has resulted in an automatic ban for Ecuador’s Group E clash against Ivory Coast on June 14, 2026, at Philadelphia Stadium in the United States.

Speaking on Thursday, Beccacece described the red card as an “unfair” and “injustice,” stressing that it would be only right for FIFA to allow one of Ecuador’s most important players to participate in the tournament’s opening match.

“Caicedo’s sanction was an unfair red card,” Beccacece said. “FIFA will have to review it to find out if we can finally count on him. I don’t know how close or far it is… but hopefully it will happen, because I think it’s something that would be fair.”

The Argentine coach, who has transformed Ecuador into a competitive force since taking charge in August 2024, underlined Caicedo’s pivotal role in the team’s midfield. The energetic and disciplined Chelsea star has been instrumental in Ecuador’s strong CONMEBOL qualifying campaign, where La Tri secured qualification and established themselves as a potential dark horse for the 2026 tournament.

Beccacece added that having Caicedo available from the first game would significantly boost Ecuador’s chances in a tough group that also includes Curaçao and Germany.

The Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) has formally requested FIFA to wipe the suspension, according to local media reports. A positive decision from FIFA would allow Caicedo to anchor the midfield alongside emerging talents like Kendry Páez in what promises to be a landmark World Cup campaign for the South American nation.

Caicedo has established himself as one of the Premier League’s top defensive midfielders at Chelsea and remains a cornerstone of Ecuador’s youthful, high-intensity squad. His absence from the Ivory Coast fixture would be a major blow to Beccacece’s tactical plans.

Ecuador fans and the football community are now awaiting FIFA’s official response as the countdown to the 2026 World Cup intensifies.

**Match Context**  

- **2026 FIFA World Cup Group E**  

- Ecuador vs Ivory Coast – June 14, 2026, Philadelphia Stadium  

- Ecuador vs Curaçao – June 20, 2026, Kansas City Stadium  

- Ecuador vs Germany – June 25, 2026, New York/New Jersey Stadium  

Tottenham considering move to sign Josh Acheampong from Chelsea

 Despite their precarious position, Josh Acheampong has cropped up on their radar as a potential transfer target.

Journalist Christian Falk has claimed that Spurs are one of three Premier League sides considering a move for Acheampong, who is reportedly not a huge fan of his current situation at Stamford Bridge.

He said to Bayern Insider: “Yes, we still have three rumours that we haven’t been able to fully verify yet, so it’s neither clearly true nor clearly not true, but we still want to talk about them. One of them is Josh Acheampong from Chelsea’s youth setup. He keeps being linked to Bayern, and you could say he’s an interesting player.

“Clubs like Newcastle, Tottenham, and West Ham are all said to have interest. He’s not entirely satisfied at Chelsea, isn’t getting much playing time, and could be an option for Bayern. And they are indeed looking at that position.”

Even if Spurs stay up, the likelihood is a deal would not be reached between the two sides. Only five transfer fees have been paid directly between the two clubs, and none since 2001

The youngster will have been confident of more minutes under Liam Rosenior than he did under Enzo Maresca, even though the Italian described him as ‘incredible’.

Despite a strong start, starts have been few and far between of late, even during an injury crisis at the back.

Rosenior preferred Mamadou Sarr to the Cobham graduate against PSG in the Champions League, surely putting questions into the youngster’s mind about his future.

Chelsea are adamant they don’t want to let him go, but they will need to start proving that on the pitch soon to avoid a potentially embarrassing sale.

Cole Palmer Delivers Sparkling Substitute Display as England Draw 1-1 with Uruguay at Wembley

Chelsea attacking midfielder **Cole Palmer** produced an impressive cameo from the substitutes’ bench as England were held to a 1-1 draw by a resilient Uruguay side in an international friendly at Wembley Stadium on Friday night.

Palmer entered the field in the 56th minute, replacing Phil Foden, and quickly injected creativity and urgency into England’s play during a match that served as an important World Cup 2026 preparation fixture under head coach Thomas Tuchel.

The 23-year-old was involved in several key moments that shifted momentum in England’s favour. He delivered a dangerous free-kick that should have resulted in a goal for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who headed wide from close range. Later, Palmer swung in a corner that led directly to **Ben White’s** first international goal in the 81st minute, as the ball flicked on via Harvey Barnes before White tapped home at the far post.

Throughout his 34 minutes on the pitch, Palmer showcased his trademark composure and vision. Statistics from the match highlight his impact: 15 accurate passes, two key passes, four passes into the final third, two accurate crosses, and two successful tackles, along with winning four duels. Fans inside Wembley responded warmly, with chants of his name echoing around the stadium as he influenced proceedings.

Despite England taking the lead late, Uruguay equalised in stoppage time through a Federico Valverde penalty (awarded after Ben White conceded a foul in the box), denying the Three Lions a victory in their penultimate home fixture before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking after the match, Thomas Tuchel praised Palmer’s contribution: “Cole takes a little more risk in his passes and he brings that creativity we need. He looked bright when he came on and gave us good moments. He is a player who can make a difference.”

Palmer himself reflected positively on his performance: “It’s always special to play at Wembley and represent England. I came on to try and help the team create chances and push for the win. We created good opportunities and it’s disappointing not to take all three points, but we’ll learn from this and keep improving as we build towards the summer.”

The draw provided Tuchel with valuable insights into squad options as England continue their “Road to 2026” preparations. With several fringe and returning players given minutes, the friendly underlined both the depth and areas requiring refinement ahead of the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

**Match Summary**  

- **Result**: England 1-1 Uruguay  

- **Goals**: Ben White (81') – England; Federico Valverde (90+4', penalty) – Uruguay  

- **Venue**: Wembley Stadium, London  

- **Attendance**: Capacity crowd  

Cole Palmer’s assured display has further strengthened his claims for a prominent role in England’s midfield and attacking options as the squad eyes a strong showing at the 2026 World Cup.

Enzo Fernández Scores as Argentina Defeat Mauritania 2-1 in World Cup Warm-Up Friendly at La Bombonera

Chelsea midfielder **Enzo Fernández** opened the scoring with a well-taken goal as the reigning world champions Argentina secured a 2-1 victory over Mauritania in an international friendly played on Friday night at the iconic Estadio Alberto José Armando, La Bombonera.

Fernández netted the opening goal in the 17th minute, showcasing his composure and technical ability in front of a passionate home crowd. Nicolás Paz added a second goal for La Albiceleste shortly before halftime, giving Argentina a commanding 2-0 lead at the break. Mauritania pulled one back early in the second half through Jordan Lefort, but the visitors could not find an equalizer against a disciplined Argentine side.

The match served as an important preparatory fixture for Argentina ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, allowing head coach Lionel Scaloni to assess squad depth and give valuable minutes to key players. Lionel Messi made a second-half substitute appearance, drawing huge cheers from the capacity crowd at La Bombonera and sparking chants urging the captain to pursue a record sixth World Cup appearance.

Fernández, who has been a cornerstone of Argentina’s midfield since the 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar, delivered an assured performance. He demonstrated excellent passing range, defensive contributions, and attacking threat, earning high praise from Argentine media outlets for his overall display.

Speaking after the match, Fernández highlighted the importance of maintaining focus even in friendly fixtures: “These games are valuable for building rhythm and testing ourselves. We approached it with full seriousness and professionalism. Scoring early helped us control the game, and it’s always special to contribute for the national team in front of our fans.”

Scaloni expressed satisfaction with the result and the opportunity to rotate his squad: “We wanted a serious performance, and the players delivered. Enzo’s goal set the tone, and we saw good things from several players. Every match helps us prepare better for the challenges ahead in 2026.”

The victory extends Argentina’s strong form as they continue fine-tuning their squad for the defense of their world title. The team is scheduled to face Zambia in another friendly on March 31 at the same venue.

**Match Summary**  

- **Result**: Argentina 2-1 Mauritania  

- **Goals**: Enzo Fernández (17'), Nicolás Paz (32') – Argentina; Jordan Lefort (49') – Mauritania  

- **Venue**: Estadio Alberto José Armando (La Bombonera), Buenos Aires  

- **Attendance**: Sold-out crowd  

Ronald Koeman Justifies Jorrel Hato Selection: “He Is Developing Tremendously and Plays His Matches at Chelsea”

Netherlands national team head coach Ronald Koeman today defended his decision to call up Jorrel Hato for the upcoming international friendlies against Norway and Ecuador, praising the 20-year-old defender’s rapid development and consistent first-team minutes at Chelsea FC despite the Premier League side’s inconsistent campaign.

Hato, who completed a £38 million transfer from Ajax to Chelsea last August on a seven-year contract, has featured in 16 Premier League appearances this season. The versatile Dutchman has been deployed primarily as a left-back or centre-half, gradually establishing himself after an initial period of adaptation under manager Enzo Maresca. His role has grown in significance since Liam Rosenior’s arrival in January, including a first goal for the club in a 5-1 FA Cup victory over Charlton Athletic and recent full 90-minute outings in the league.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference in Zeist, Koeman addressed questions regarding Hato’s inclusion amid Chelsea’s fluctuating form and the young player’s up-and-down integration into the squad. He revealed that Hato had personally contacted him prior to finalising the move from Ajax, seeking advice on whether the step to the Premier League would guarantee regular playing time.

“He also called me when he could make the transfer to Chelsea,” Koeman said. “Then it’s about whether you are ready for it. Is it the step where you are going to play? He is developing tremendously and is only 20 years old. He is there for a reason, because he plays his matches at Chelsea.”

Koeman emphasised that such consultations from players are not obligatory but reflect a logical desire for guidance on career moves. “It’s not an obligation. It’s not like I tell players when you have a chance to change clubs that they have to call me. But they call and I think it makes sense. It’s about playing time and then I give advice. The advice is often followed.”

The Oranje boss highlighted Hato’s maturity, physicality, technical ability and temperament as key factors in his selection, noting that regular exposure at a top Premier League club — even during a challenging period for the team — demonstrates the defender’s readiness for international duty. At just 20, Hato’s progress since leaving Ajax has been described by Koeman as “wonderful,” underscoring his belief that the youngster’s club performances merit a place in the national squad.

Hato’s call-up comes as the Netherlands prepare for two friendly fixtures that will serve as important preparation ahead of future competitive commitments. Koeman’s squad selection continues to blend experience with emerging talent, and the inclusion of Hato reinforces the coach’s commitment to rewarding players who are earning minutes at the highest level.

Quotes:

- Ronald Koeman, Netherlands Head Coach: “He is developing tremendously and is only 20 years old. He is there for a reason, because he plays his matches at Chelsea.”

- Ronald Koeman on player consultations: “It’s about playing time and then I give advice. The advice is often followed.”

Mamadou Sarr doesn’t regret his Chelsea return

 Mamadou Sarr’s return to Chelsea has been a difficult introduction following his early recall from Strasbourg. Reunited with Liam Rosenior, who previously managed him in France, Sarr arrived with momentum after starting and winning the AFCON final with Senegal.

While Sarr impressed in an FA Cup debut against Hull City, his first Premier League start against Arsenal, and a Champions League appearance against Paris Saint-Germain highlighted the growing pains of a 20-year-old in a struggling side.

A costly first-touch error against PSG led to an early goal from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, resulting in a half-time substitution. Despite this, Rosenior has publicly backed Sarr, citing their long-term working relationship as proof of the defender’s high ceiling.

In a quote shared by blue_footy on X, Mamadou Sarr admitted that he’s focused on earning his place at Chelsea after a tough start.

“I think the break will do us good, and when we resume training, we’ll clear our heads.

“Every footballer goes through moments like that (against PSG). The important thing is to pick yourself up and move on.

“I have no regrets about leaving Strasbourg, because I’ve arrived at a big club where you have to earn your place to play.”

We’ve given Mamadou Sarr a 5/10 for his Chelsea performances this season, but the potential is there.

Mamadou Sarr established himself as one of Ligue 1’s premier defensive prospects. During the 2024/25 season, the 19-year-old made 28 appearances, helping the club secure a seventh-place finish and European qualification.

After Chelsea signed him in June 2025, he returned to Strasbourg on loan for the first half of the 2025/26 campaign. He made a further 18 appearances, including crucial Conference League matches, before his mid-season recall to London in February.

Liam Rosenior genuinely thinks Sarr can become ‘world-class’, so you can expect him to stick around at Chelsea. And he is only 19, so we can cut him some slack.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink: Service with a snarl

 To celebrate the 54th birthday of one of Chelsea’s most prolific goalscorers, we look back at just why Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink’s move to Stamford Bridge was so important – and that’s before we factor in his role in one of the all-time great strike pairings…

The mere mention of the name Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink will a bring a smile to the face of most Chelsea fans – somewhat ironically, some might say, considering his reputation as one of football’s angriest men (on the pitch, that is!).

Looks might not have been able to kill when it came to Jimmy – though he tried his best – but any unfortunate souls willing to put themselves in front of one of his shots were certainly taking their lives into their own hands. Few in the Premier League era have ever boasted as crisp a strike as the man who can legitimately claim to be our most prolific No.9 since the English top flight rebranded in 1992.

One of Gianluca Vialli’s last actions as Blues boss was to part with a club-record fee of £15 million to bring the Dutch striker to Stamford Bridge, convinced he was signing the missing piece of the puzzle.

Twice we had come up short in major competitions in his two full seasons in the dugout, firstly in the Premier League – when we finished only three points behind Manchester United in 1999 – and then in the Champions League, after a dramatic extra-time defeat against Barcelona.

The common consensus was that there was little wrong with the defence and midfield, but up front we were lacking the 20-goal-a-season frontman to fire us to glory, the type of player who turned those frustrating 0-0s into victories. Not since the days of Kerry Dixon had we boasted such a centre-forward, for whom the only currency they dealt in was goals.

Chris Sutton, who had signed a year before Jimmy, proved not to be that man, despite a club-record outlay on him. Now the gauntlet had been passed to a striker who had previously starred for one of our fiercest rivals.

Prolific during his spell at Leeds United in the late Nineties – having been recommended to manager George Graham by his scout Ian McNeil, who had famously served as John Neal’s assistant during Chelsea’s return to the big time in the Eighties – Hasselbaink cemented his place as one of Europe’s deadliest marksman with a devastating one-year spell with Atletico Madrid.

It took Hasselbaink no time at all to prove himself to the Chelsea fans and, more importantly, his new team-mates. He fired us ahead against Manchester United in the Charity Shield (pictured top), ensuring that piece of silverware made its way to Stamford Bridge for only the second time.

‘I scored in that game and so did my good friend Mario Melchiot,’ he said. ‘We comfortably won the game 2-0 and everybody thought we were going to win the league. But we didn’t!’

Three goals in five games was a solid return at the start of his Blues career, but after the sixth, a goalless draw with Newcastle United, Vialli was sacked.

It didn’t affect Jimmy one bit. Come the end of the campaign he finished with 23 goals in the Premier League, which was enough to secure him the Golden Boot for the second time in three seasons in the English top flight. It was also the first time a Chelsea player had netted 20 goals since Dixon had done so in 1990, which ensured his price tag was never mentioned and he was an instant Blues legend.

‘Chelsea were gagging for a No.9 that was going to score between 15 and 25 goals yearly and they had not had one for a few years,’ he said in an interview with this website in 2020.

‘That is why when I came in and it all worked, and especially the first year, winning the Golden Boot, it made the fans even more appreciative of me.’

The following season the goals kept on coming, but this time it was in tandem with Eidur Gudjohnsen. Together they shared an almost telepathic link and with their respective skill sets so different, it meant defenders had no idea how they were going to be hit.

Gudjohnsen is one of the great link players in the club’s history – once dubbed ‘the blond Maradona’ by Jose Mourinho – possessing the deftest of touches and a cool head in front of goal. He proved to be a great assist-man for Jimmy, whose incredible strength and blockbuster shot meant he was a constant menace to opposition defences.

Combining for a total of 52 goals and 29 assists in 2001/02, the pair even managed to keep the legendary Gianfranco Zola out of the starting XI for much of the season – and that took some doing.

‘Eidur and I were very close on the pitch, as you know, but also off it too,’ he said in an interview with Chelsea magazine a few years back. ‘We got on very well.

‘I have to say, he was my best-ever strike partner; it was the perfect combination for me, but also for him. I had something that he didn’t have and he definitely had something I didn’t have. So it was just good working together – and we loved working together. We were looking for each other all the time and it was a great partnership.

‘The secret to our success wasn't very secret – we just enjoyed playing together. We understood each other's movements and spoke Dutch to each other on the pitch, but I think the main thing was just enjoyment.’

When asked to choose his favourite Chelsea goals, Jimmy picked a thunderous half-volley against Manchester United in first place, just ahead of his famous perfect hat-trick against Tottenham in 2002.

What is in absolutely no doubt, however, is the choice of his favourite club from his playing career. That will always be Chelsea, where he played more games than anywhere else, as he appeared 177 times for the Blues and scored 87 goals.

Happy birthday, Jimmy!

Source: CHELSEA FC 

Malo Gusto gets a 6/10 after France’s win over Brazil

 France’s 2-1 victory over Brazil at Gillette Stadium served as a vital audition for Malo Gusto ahead of the summer World Cup, with Jules Kounde injured. Starting at right-back, Gusto was tasked with the daunting challenge of neutralizing Vinicius Junior.

He performed admirably for much of the contest, utilising his recovery pace to manage one-on-one situations before France was reduced to ten men following Dayot Upamecano’s 55th-minute red card.

Joao Pedro was introduced for Brazil to chase an equaliser, and he got to see the worst of his Chelsea teammate, with Gusto making mistakes and giving Vinicius too much space in the second half.

Eurosport France were straight out with their player ratings after France’s win against Brazil, but Gusto’s rating wasn’t as good as many would have thought after a win.

‘Opposite him, Vinicius did not exist. So yes, the Brazilian was next to his pumps on Thursday, but the former Lyon player also opposed him with a deterrent presence.

‘Very available during the first half hour, he lacked accuracy in his crosses. Not really intimidated by the context, Gusto still made two mistakes (questionable alignment on the action that led to the expulsion of Upamecano and failed tackle against Luiz Enrique) which sent a real shiver through.

‘In short… It is decidedly the recourse to Jules Kounde.’

This isn’t too dissimilar to our ratings of Gusto so far this season, as we believe he’s been a 6/10 for Chelsea.

Gusto played 91 minutes, completed both of his dribbles, was dispossessed twice, completed 46 out of his 55 passes, made four passes into the final third, had a game-high 74 touches, failed his only cross, made four out of five long balls, two tackles, one interception, four recoveries, one clearance, was dribbled past once and won five out of his 11 duels (FotMob).

Source: GOAL

Andrey Santos and Joao Pedro rated by the Brazilian media

Andrey Santos was handed a significant opportunity in central midfield alongside Casemiro due to Bruno Guimaraes’ injury. He delivered a disciplined, tidy performance, though he struggled to provide the creative spark needed to break down a resilient French side.

He was eventually substituted in the 71st minute as Carlo Ancelotti chased the game.

Joao Pedro, despite his prolific club form at Chelsea, began the match on the bench. He was introduced in the 63rd minute for Gabriel Martinelli but found himself starved of service.

ESPN Brasil were one of the first outlets to assess what went on in Brazil’s defeat to France.

Both Andrey Santos and Joao Pedro didn’t receive the best reviews, but it was more a projection of the Brazilian team as a whole.

‘Chosen to replace the injured Bruno Guimaraes, Andrey had difficulty finding himself on the field and giving the rhythm that the team needed. Rating: 4.5‘

‘Activated by Ancelotti as a bet to change the offensive dynamics of the team, he had reduced space to show the same football as Chelsea.‘

Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos had to make-do without their international and club teammate Estevao Willian, who wasn’t picked for the Brazil squad due to his injury.

Andrey Santos had 36 touches, completed 27 out of 30 passes, made seven passes into the final third, failed his only long ball, and made two tackles, four recoveries, one clearance, was dribbled past once, won three out of five duels and committed one foul.

Meanwhile, Joao Pedro won two out of six duels, failed both of his dribbles, made one tackle, one interception, three recoveries, and had just 14 touches, made two out of his four passes, was dispossessed twice, and had two touches in the opposition’s box.

All stats via FotMob.

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.

France Edge Brazil 2-1 in High-Profile International Friendly at Gillette Stadium

 France defeated Brazil 2-1 in an entertaining pre-2026 FIFA World Cup international friendly played on Thursday evening at Gillette Stadium. The match served as a significant test for both teams as they continue their preparations for this summer’s tournament.

Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring for France in the 32nd minute with a superb chipped finish, moving him closer to becoming Les Bleus’ all-time leading scorer. Hugo Ekitike added a second goal early in the second half, giving France a 2-0 lead despite playing with 10 men after Dayot Upamecano was sent off.

Brazil, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, responded late through a goal from Bremer in the 78th minute, but could not find an equalizer against a resilient French side. The attendance at Gillette Stadium was 66,215, creating a vibrant atmosphere for this clash between two football powerhouses.

The game was part of the “Road to 26” series of international exhibitions leading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It marked the first meeting between Brazil and France since 2015 and provided valuable insights for both coaching staffs.

France head coach Didier Deschamps praised his team’s character, especially after going down to ten players: “The players showed great mentality and discipline. This is the kind of test we need as we build towards the World Cup.”

Brazil’s Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged the challenge: “France are a very strong team. We had moments where we could have done better, but this match gives us important information for our preparations. We will work hard to improve.”

The result leaves both nations with plenty to reflect on as they fine-tune their squads ahead of the world’s biggest football event.

Match Details

Result: Brazil 1-2 France

Goals: Mbappé (32'), Ekitike (second half), Bremer (78')

Venue: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA

Attendance: 66,215

Watch Full Highlights below:

Watch: Ziyech goal against Man city in the FA Cup

 Watch Ziyech Goal Against Man city .

Chelsea were slicing through prime Man City like they didn’t exist… absolute peak football.

Watch: Jose Mourinho Expresses Hope for Chelsea’s Return to Glory Days and Reveals Emotional Attachment to Stamford Bridge

Jose Mourinho, the legendary former Chelsea manager, has spoken passionately about his enduring love for the club and his sincere hope that Chelsea can rediscover their best form following the turbulent period since Roman Abramovich’s departure.

In a candid interview, Mourinho reflected on the significant changes at Stamford Bridge after the sale of the club in 2022, acknowledging the challenges the Blues have faced in maintaining the consistent success that defined the Abramovich era.

“I have always hoped and believed that Chelsea can get back to their best form once again,” Mourinho said. “The club achieved incredible things under Roman Abramovich – multiple Premier League titles, Champions League glory, and a dynasty of success. That DNA is still there in the club and the fans. I truly hope the new ownership can rebuild that winning culture and bring the glory days back to Stamford Bridge.”

Mourinho, who enjoyed two hugely successful spells at Chelsea (2004-2007 and 2013-2015), winning three Premier League titles, two League Cups, one FA Cup, and one Community Shield, also revealed his deep personal connection to the famous stadium.

“Even after all these years, I have always wanted to stay close to Stamford Bridge,” he added with a smile. “There is something magical about that place. I wanted to be near so I could listen to the sound of success – the roar of the crowd when the team is winning, the chants echoing through the stands, the electric atmosphere on European nights. That sound… it stays with you forever.”

The Portuguese coach, affectionately known as “The Special One,” emphasized that his affection for Chelsea and its supporters remains strong despite moving on to other clubs in his illustrious career.

“Chelsea will always have a special place in my heart,” Mourinho concluded. “The fans, the club, the history – it’s part of who I am as a manager. I wish them nothing but the best as they strive to return to the pinnacle of English and European football.”

Mourinho’s comments come at a time when Chelsea are navigating a new era under their current ownership, with fans eagerly anticipating a return to sustained competitiveness both domestically and on the continent.

Mourinho speaking on how he hopes Chelsea gets back to their best form once again after Abramovich lost the club and how he has always wanted to stay close to Stamford Bridge so he could listen to the sound of success.

He’s really a proper Chels, man. pic.twitter.com/etL6OGizdH

— GiftedHands (@Sire_Gift) March 27, 2026