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The preparation period has officially concluded — now the serious action begins!

On Saturday, the Brazilian National Team defeated Egypt 2-1 in Cleveland, United States, in their final friendly ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

However, the first half brought a new concern for head coach Carlo Ancelotti. Right-back Wesley was forced off with an injury, leaving the Italian manager with a potential problem just five days before the start of the World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

At the start of the second half, the 66-year-old Ancelotti made as many as eight substitutions at once.

The most significant change — and the one that produced an immediate impact — was the introduction of Endrick in place of Igor Thiago.

The 20-year-old Real Madrid forward, who came through Palmeiras’ youth system, needed just six minutes on the pitch to restore Brazil’s lead.

Brazil’s high pressing disrupted Egypt’s build-up play, allowing Raphinha to drive down the left flank and deliver a precise low cross into the box, which Endrick finished first time.

The goal gave the Brazilian side the composure they needed to control the remainder of the match.

Goalkeeper Weverton, for instance, had a relatively quiet second half, even with Mohamed Salah — the “Egyptian King” — on the field.

On the attacking side, though, Brazil showed limited urgency in their attempts to find a third goal.

After scoring, Endrick celebrated with his teammates before heading over to receive a warm hug and a quick kiss on the cheek from coach Ancelotti.

With back-to-back victories in their final warm-up games — 6-2 over Panama and 2-1 against Egypt — Brazil will go into the 2026 World Cup in high spirits.

The quest for a record sixth title begins next Saturday, 13 June, at 7:00 p.m. Brasília time, against Morocco in New Jersey. They will then face Haiti on 19 June at 9:30 p.m. in Philadelphia.

Brazil’s final Group C fixture is scheduled for 24 June against Scotland, at 7:00 p.m. Brasília time, in Miami.