Author: Soorya G
In an effort to combat racism in soccer, five-time World Cup winners Brazil are scheduled to face Guinea in a friendly soccer match. This exhibition match is part of a wider campaign against racism, in which Brazil will also play Senegal. The first match will be in Barcelona and the second in Lisbon. The decision to organize these games against African opponents is a response to the recent racial abuse suffered by Real Madrid’s Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr, who has been the target of racist insults on several occasions during the season, most recently during Real Madrid’s La Liga match against Sevilla.
The worrying incidents sparked widespread discussions and raised doubts about Vinicius’ possible departure from Madrid. However, the club has dismissed these rumors, stating that the young player is happy at Real Madrid and emphasizing its commitment to fighting racism.
Ramon Menezes appointed interim coach. Brazil have been without a permanent coach since Tite resigned after the World Cup campaign in Qatar. Tite stepped down after Brazil’s unexpected elimination in the quarter-finals against Croatia. The Brazilian team displayed remarkable form throughout the tournament, led by standout performances from players such as Richarlison, Neymar Jr. and Casemiro. They looked set to have a great campaign in the competition. However, their journey came to an end in a tense penalty shootout after a resounding 4-1 victory over South Korea in the Round of 16. Shortly after that painful defeat, Tite resigned. From now on, Menezes has taken temporary charge until a new coach is appointed.
Brazil’s efforts to secure Carlo Ancelotti as their new coach have been hampered as he cannot negotiate while his contract with Real Madrid is in force. Since the World Cup, Brazil have only played one international match, losing 2-1 to Morocco. The team for the upcoming friendlies has been announced, with Vinicius standing out as one of the prominent members. Veteran Paris Saint-Germain striker Neymar Jr. will sit out the games due to a season-ending injury, while Gabriel Jesus is absent. Interestingly, former Barcelona full-back Malcolm has been called up to the team and will be able to take part in the matches.
Meanwhile, Guinea have been in respectable form in the AFCON qualifiers and are currently positioned to secure a place in the tournament. Their recent performances have been mixed, with wins against Ethiopia but defeats against Côte d’Ivoire and Egypt. The Guinean team will be eager to get a positive result in this friendly, not only to prepare for the upcoming continental competitions, but also to send a strong message against racism.
The match between Brazil and Guinea promises to be intriguing, mixing the pursuit of sporting success with the promotion of a noble cause. The players will take to the field not only as representatives of their respective countries, but also as defenders of the fight against racial discrimination in soccer.
Team news
Both teams will have the best possible line-up ahead of the continental competitions. Although the game is a friendly, both coaches will treat it as an important training match.
Key players
Vinicius Jr. will undoubtedly be the spectacle of the game, for more than obvious reasons. The Brazilian is coming off another sensational season for Real Madrid and is heading into next season as one of the most important players, following Benzema’s departure. In addition, due to the magnitude of the occasion and the cause, Vini will be a striking presence.
Naby Keita will be an important player for his country. After being transferred to Werder Bremen following a lacklustre spell at Liverpool, he will be eager to prove his worth.
Forecasts
Brazil will win
The national team is too powerful for Guinea and an unfavorable result is expected.
Ilaix will do well
The former Barcelona player has been in good form recently and could show his talent on Sunday.
Rodrygo to shine
The Brazilian missed his penalty at the World Cup and has recovered well since then. He will be eager to do a good job for his country.