Australia go down fighting to Brazil in fiery 4-2 friendly defeat
Brazil beat Australia 4-2 in a fiery friendly at Lang Park, recovering from a spell in which the Socceroos led 2-1. Australia’s response after conceding an early goal showed attacking ambition and progress under Tony Popovic, giving the match significance beyond the result as the team builds towards January’s Asian Cup.
Vanderson put Brazil ahead after 132 seconds, but Alessandro Circati equalised from a Connor Metcalfe corner before Metcalfe struck to give Australia the lead. Raphinha converted a penalty just before half-time, and Bruno Guimarães restored Brazil’s advantage after substitute Endrick set him up; Brazil added a fourth late on. The match also featured a touchline confrontation involving Harry Souttar and Endrick, while Nestory Irankunda missed a chance to put Australia 3-2 ahead.
- Brazil beat Australia 4-2 after the Socceroos led 2-1.
- Circati and Metcalfe scored for Australia.
- Endrick helped Brazil regain the lead in a fiery match.