Brazil Impress With Perfect FIFA Series Campaign Ahead Of 2027 World Cup

It was a slightly different system for Brazil in this fixture, as they opted for a back four, with Yasmim at left-back, Isa Haas and Mariza as the centre-backs, and Paloma at right-back. It was something different, but also something Arthur Elias has used regularly, switching between a back three and a back four depending on the opposition.

It was a case of déjà vu for Brazil, who once again dominated in the second half. Maranhão scored in the 47th minute to make it 2-0, but Zambia responded almost immediately through Barbra Banda.

However, the home side once again proved too strong. Angelina converted from the penalty spot before Ary Borges made it 4-1. Kerolin and Vitória Calhau added further goals in stoppage time, with Calhau scoring from the penalty spot, to complete a 6-1 rout.

Once again, the stats were heavily in Brazil’s favour. They registered 22 shots, with 12 on target, and an expected goals figure of 3.72 compared to Zambia’s 0.50, showing that the build-up to the World Cup on home soil is starting to click for the Brazilians.

Then, in the third and final match for Brazil, they took on Canada in what was expected to be their toughest test of the three, and it proved to be so.

Elias opted for a back four in a 4-3-3 system, with Lelê in goal, Thais Ferreira at left-back, Isa Haas and Lauren as the centre-backs, and Aline Gomes at right-back.

It was Brazil who started the stronger. Dudinha cut in from the right, showing good skill to beat the full-back before being denied by Sheridan in goal for Canada.

Kerloin followed up the rebound, but the ball was cleared off the line.

From the resulting corner, Duda Sampaio delivered a lovely ball that Lauren attacked well, making a strong connection with her header, but it was denied by Sheridan, who produced a fingertip save onto the crossbar.

Ludmila had a glorious chance to put Brazil 1-0 up on the stroke of half-time, but her one-on-one effort was comfortably saved by the Canadian shot stopper.

However, Brazil struck early in the second half. A long ball over the top led to the breakthrough in the 47th minute, as Gomes produced a lovely lobbed volley over Sheridan, who had no chance.

Despite a late red card to Ary Borges, Brazil managed to hold on, securing an important 1-0 victory and ending their campaign in style.

For Arthur Elias, it was a much-improved series compared to the February fixtures, and the team were able to lift silverware at the end of the tournament. While it may be classed as an international friendly competition, it is always valuable to build momentum and confidence, especially in the build-up to a World Cup.