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CBF

· 1 June 2026

Vinícius Júnior and Luiz Henrique celebrate Brazil’s opening goal in the 6-2 victory over Panama Credits: Nelson Terme/CBF

Forward Vinícius Júnior, who netted Brazil’s first goal in their emphatic 6-2 win over Panama this Sunday (31) at the Maracanã, said the friendly match served as an important step in the team’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The striker also contributed directly to the second goal, scored by Casemiro, before being substituted at halftime.

“I think it was a great game for our preparation. We had two different lineups — one in each half — but both shared the same goal: to be as ready as possible for the World Cup. I believe both teams executed exactly what the coach asked of us and managed to put it into action on the pitch,” said Vinícius Júnior.

The No. 7 also highlighted the atmosphere at the Maracanã following the convincing win and spoke about the joy of returning to the iconic stadium. Over 70,000 Brazilian fans filled the stands, creating an electric environment that inspired the team. “Winning at home, at the Maracanã, and coming back here after such a long time is always something very special,” he added.

Brazil dominated Panama in what was their farewell match on home soil before heading to the United States, where they will play another friendly against Egypt on June 6. The game also served as a tune-up for the team’s World Cup group stage fixtures. The goals for Brazil came from Vinícius Júnior, Casemiro, Rayan, Lucas Paquetá, Igor Thiago, and Danilo Santos. Panama’s goals were scored by Matheus Cunha (own goal) and Carlos Harvey.

The Seleção will next take the field on June 6 at 7 p.m. (Brasília time) against Egypt in Cleveland, marking their final outing before the start of the World Cup. Brazil’s World Cup campaign begins on June 13, when they face Morocco in Group C at the MetLife Stadium in Rutherford, New Jersey.

Vinícius Júnior opened the scoring in Brazil’s 6-2 win over Panama Credits: Nelson Terme/CBF