The international friendly window continued Wednesday, delivering mixed results for European sides as Brazil battled to a 3-1 victory over Croatia, even as Belgium drew 1-1 with Mexico. Ajax defender Josip Sutalo had a night to forget for Croatia, while Mika Godts earned a starting spot for Belgium, gaining valuable experience in the process.
Croatia fell to a defeat against Brazil in a match that proved more challenging than the final score might suggest. Danilo opened the scoring for Brazil just before halftime, but Lovro Majer leveled the score in the 84th minute. The comeback was short-lived, though, as a penalty awarded after a foul committed by Ajax’s Josip Sutalo allowed Igor Thiago to restore Brazil’s lead. Gabriel Martinelli then sealed the win for the Brazilians in stoppage time, completing a 3-1 scoreline.
The penalty decision proved pivotal, with Sutalo’s challenge leading to the spot-kick. Video evidence, available here, shows the incident that ultimately shifted the momentum in Brazil’s favor. The loss serves as a setback for Croatia as they continue their preparations for future international competitions.
Croatia Starting XI: Livakovic; Stanisic, Sutalo, Vuskovic (Smolcic 82′), Caleta-Car (Pongracic 60′), Perisic (Pasalic 69′); Kramaric (Musa 60′), Modric (Pasalic 60′), Sucic (Fruk 82′), Baturina (Majer 70′); Budimir (Moro 60′).
Scoring Summary: 1-0 Danilo (45+2′), 1-1 Lovro Majer (84′), 2-1 Igor Thiago (88′, pen.), 3-1 Gabriel Martinelli (90+2′).
Meanwhile, Belgium was held to a 1-1 draw against Mexico. Mika Godts, the young Ajax winger, was included in the starting lineup for the Red Devils. Mexico took the lead through Jorge Sánchez, a former Ajax player, who scored from a rebound off a corner in the 19th minute. Belgium responded quickly after the break, with Dodi Lukébakio finding the net to equalize. Godts was substituted off after approximately an hour of play.
The draw represents a less-than-ideal result for Belgium as they assess their squad ahead of upcoming tournaments. Godts’ inclusion in the starting eleven, however, provides a positive sign for his international development. The match offered a valuable opportunity for the young player to gain experience against international competition.
Belgium Starting XI: Sels; Castagne (Meunier 63′), De Winter (Debast 72′), Ngoy (Theate 72′), De Cuyper (Saelemaekers 72′); Tielemans (Onana 63′), Witsel (Raskin 63′); Lukébakio (Stassin 72′), De Bruyne (Seys 72′), Godts (Doku 63′); Openda (De Ketelaere 63′).
Scoring Summary: 1-0 Jorge Sánchez (19′), 1-1 Dodi Lukébakio (46′).
These friendlies provide crucial preparation time for national teams as they build towards major competitions. While Brazil demonstrated their attacking prowess, and Belgium sought to integrate younger players like Godts, the results highlight the competitive nature of international football. The matches offer valuable insights into team dynamics and tactical approaches as coaches experiment with different lineups and strategies.
For Croatia, the defeat will prompt a review of defensive vulnerabilities, particularly the costly penalty conceded by Sutalo. Belgium, will likely focus on converting chances and building on the positive aspects of Godts’ performance.
Next up for both teams are further international commitments as they continue their preparations for upcoming qualifying matches and tournaments. Details regarding those schedules will be released by the respective national associations in the coming weeks.
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