Paris, Nov 19 (NationPress) Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil faced yet another disappointing evening in their preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, managing only a 1-1 draw against Tunisia during an international friendly on Tuesday.

Even with a fully equipped offensive lineup and the burgeoning talent of Estevao, the Selecao once again fell short of the precision and control anticipated from a five-time world champion.

Brazil approached the game under significant scrutiny after finishing fifth in the South American qualifiers and suffering a 3-2 loss to Japan last month. In response, Ancelotti fielded an audacious attacking team that included Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes, Matheus Cunha, and the 18-year-old Estevao. However, it was Tunisia that made the first impactful play.

In the first half, Ali Abdi carved through the Brazilian defense with an exceptional pass, enabling Hazem Mastouri to break free and coolly finish past the advancing Bento. With numerous Tunisian fans cheering in the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, the North African side appeared poised to secure an upset.

Brazil, however, managed to equalize just before half-time. A VAR review led to a penalty for handball, inciting loud protests from Tunisian supporters. Estevao, who had also scored against Senegal a few days prior, converted the penalty, marking his fifth international goal and solidifying his reputation as Brazil’s most promising young talent.

The second half continued to bring challenges for the Selecao. With just 12 minutes left, they earned another penalty, but substitute Lucas Paqueta, taking over the spot-kick duties from Estevao, sent his shot over the bar, squandering a prime opportunity for a much-needed victory. Brazil later sought a third penalty when Estevao fell in the 89th minute, but the referee, even after a VAR review, opted not to alter his decision.

This draw leaves Brazil in search of solutions as they approach next year’s World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. For Ancelotti, the potential shown by young stars like Estevao is continually overshadowed by the squad’s failure to translate dominance into tangible results.

In other international friendlies on Tuesday, Sadio Mane scored a first-half hat-trick as Senegal crushed Kenya 8-0, while African champion Ivory Coast triumphed over Oman 2-0.

Algeria surprised Saudi Arabia with a 2-0 victory featuring a goal from Riyad Mahrez, and Morocco outclassed Uganda with a 4-0 win. Uzbekistan, preparing for its inaugural World Cup appearance, held Iran to a goalless draw despite the red card issued to Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov.