Brazil build momentum with victory over Egypt ahead of World Cup

Carlo Ancelotti's side had already beaten Croatia and Panama in recent friendlies and made a bright start against Egypt. Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes opened the scoring after just seven minutes when he capitalised on a mistake in Egypt's defence and fired home from inside the penalty area.

However, Egypt responded quickly. Mostafa Ziko intercepted a misplaced backpass from Marquinhos and calmly beat Alisson to level the scores, continuing his impressive recent form for the national team.

Brazil created several chances before the break, with Vinicius Junior and Igor Thiago both denied by goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir. Ancelotti was also forced into an early concern when Wesley Franca picked up an injury and had to leave the field.

The decisive moment arrived shortly after half-time. One of Ancelotti's substitutions made an immediate impact as Raphinha drove forward down the left flank before delivering a perfect pass for Endrick, who finished first time to restore Brazil's lead.

Egypt captain Mohamed Salah made his first appearance after the interval and showed encouraging signs as he continued his return to full fitness ahead of the World Cup.

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan admitted his disappointment at the defeat but praised his team's performance against one of football's biggest nations.

"I do not like losing, and I am saddened by the defeat to Brazil, even though they are one of the biggest teams in the world," Hassan said.

"We faced a strong and outstanding team in the final match before the World Cup."

Hassan also confirmed that Salah is fully fit after completing rehabilitation work with both Liverpool and the Egyptian national team.

"Salah underwent a rehabilitation programme with Liverpool and then with the national team, and he is now ready for matches," he said.

Egypt begin their Group G campaign against Belgium on 15 June before facing New Zealand and Iran. Hassan expects a difficult challenge from the Europeans.

"The opening match against Belgium at the World Cup will be extremely difficult, and the group is strong and highly competitive," he added.

Meanwhile, Endrick continued his impressive return from injury with another important goal for Brazil. The Real Madrid forward expressed his gratitude after scoring the winner and revealed that the goal carried special meaning for his family.

"This feeling is something that can't be explained. I thank God so much for scoring another goal," Endrick said.

"I'm very happy because when I was injured, I couldn't come to the national team, and that's the worst thing for a Brazilian player."

The striker dedicated the goal to his wife and their unborn child, adding: "I dedicate it to my wife and my little one who is in her belly."

Brazil will now turn their attention to their World Cup opener against Morocco in New York, before further group matches against Haiti and Scotland as Ancelotti's side look to begin their quest for a sixth world title in style.