Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Barcelona star Raphinha will start Friday’s friendly against Australia in Townsville on Friday.
Raphinha has travelled across the globe to play in the friendly and Ancelotti has named his starting XI for the match at a pre-game press conference.
Here’s how Brazil will line-up: Hugo Souza; Matheuzinho, Marquinhos, Vitor Reis and Douglas Santos; Danilo and Bruno Guimarães; Estevão, Raphinha, Endrick and Vini Jr.
Ancelotti explained why he’s gone with a strong
XI for the game.
“For us, the important thing is to play well, to start winning games. The truth is that these games can be an opportunity for some. I believe we have a base and we have to continue with it, of players who played in the World Cup, who can help in the progression of our young players that we have here,” he told reporters.
The Brazil boss also spoke about the form of Vinicius Jr and Raphinha, who have enjoyed rather different starts to the new La Liga campaign.
“The two are in different situations right now. Obviously, Raphinha is doing spectacular things in a position that wasn’t his before, but it seems like it is now too,” he added.
“Vini… he might not be at his best right now, but we are confident that both of them will be fundamental for the future.”
Brazil are due to play two games against Australia and will then jet off to India for their third friendly of the international break.
