Brazil returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 2–0 victory over Senegal, in a match that was far from the usual friendly.
The Seleção controlled possession for large stretches and created several chances, but Senegal’s resilient defence kept the game competitive for much of the first half.
Fans were treated to an intense, high-tempo encounter, with both teams showing glimpses of attacking promise and tactical discipline.
The breakthrough came thanks to goals from Estêvão and Casemiro, who once again proved why he is emerging as one of Brazil’s brightest talents.
SoftFootball reports that fans were quick to praise his performance. @khurumpack said that
Estêvão shines again for Brazil! Back-to-back goals as the Seleção return to winning ways vs Senegal.
However, the celebrations were tempered by worries over Gabriel, Brazil’s superstar centre-back, who was substituted with a suspected groin injury. SoftFootball earlier reported that Gabriel had been named Arsenal’s Player of the Month, highlighting how crucial he is for both club and country. Supporters reacted with concern:
Bad news for the Gunners as superstar centre-back Gabriel was substituted vs Senegal for Brazil today. Hopefully not too serious for both Arsenal and Brazil.
Critics also questioned the tactical decision to start Gabriel in a friendly. @Natalee commented:
The real question is whether Ancelotti NEEDED to start Gabriel in a friendly match vs Senegal. Even if he did, one half then sub him. He is important to Brazil as much as he is for his club so this was really bad management decision. This wasn’t even an important game FFS!
Senegal’s performance drew praise, but some fans felt the team lacked a clinical striker. @UdejiUgochukwu observed:
Watching this Brazil vs Senegal game made me realize that if Senegal had a striker like Osimhen or Haaland they would have hurt Brazil really well. Their offense was okay but it lacked a good striker.
Even the referee’s decisions sparked reactions, as some fans felt disruptions affected the flow of the game. @NUFCThreatLevel joked:
Referee ruining things for everyone by deciding to have halftime in this Brazil vs Senegal game. Stick a little protective helmet on Bruno. Protect your best player second half Carlo.
The intensity of the match left fans worried for Brazil’s key players. @AfolabiAlausa tweeted:
Ancelotti should just help me remove Estêvão before they break his leg.
And the overall vibe of the match? @Olajire summed it up best:
Brazil vs Senegal is not giving friendly match vibes at all
After the game against Brazil, Senegal updated the fans via its official X handle, they posted that the team lost, which was its first in the last 11 competitive games.They posted:
Despite being labelled a friendly, the match offered plenty of talking points, from attacking brilliance to injury scares and tactical debates. With Gabriel’s fitness now a key concern, Brazil must focus on consistency, protecting their stars, and preparing for more challenging fixtures ahead.
