Endrick held back as Brazil prepare for Haiti test

Endrick won't start against Haiti, Ancelotti preaches patience

Brazil face Haiti on Friday needing a win after the 1–1 draw with Morocco to open Group C (1) (2). Carlo Ancelotti shut down the loudest question before kickoff with a smile: "We have to put Endrick in at the right moment. We'll wait a bit. He will be important" (1).

The 19-year-old would become Brazil's youngest World Cup starter since Pelé and Marco Antônio in 1970 if named to the XI (1). Fans want it, Ancelotti is not budging, not yet. "The first part of the game was unexpected. I think the World Cup debut, the weight of the shirt, influenced the players mentally. Starting well is important, but it's not the most important thing" (1).

He kept the message simple: "You don't win a World Cup in the first match" (2).

Haiti arrive wounded, and Brazil know the stakes

Haiti lost 0–1 to Scotland in their opener and have never taken a World Cup point (2). Ancelotti called for resilience over perfection. "The team has to be more than perfect, it has to be resilient. This team is resilient and will improve" (1).

Raphinha chases his first World Cup goal contribution

Raphinha has delivered for Brazil in this cycle, but a World Cup goal or assist is still missing (3). He asked for honesty. "I've already managed to deliver a lot for the Seleção, yes. Obviously we can't be hypocritical and say it was the same as at club level. But within what we've been through in this cycle, I was able to deliver good football. If we're expected to do what we do at club level, it's because we're capable of doing it for the Seleção too" (3).

Fan reactions

Brazil fans are split between wanting Endrick unleashed and trusting Ancelotti's timing. The discussion thread has more heat around the midfield being overrun than the result itself. A recurring line: this group stage should be straightforward, but nothing is allowed to feel straightforward anymore. Join the conversation