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Two South American giants, Brazil and Argentina, both recorded victories in their final warm-up matches ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Despite not fielding their strongest line-ups, both teams displayed their quality as leading contenders for the tournament, which will kick off on June 12.

Brazil defeated Egypt 2-1, while Argentina overcame Honduras 2-0. In another fixture, Curacao drew attention with an emphatic 4-0 win over Aruba.

Endrick Once Again Makes the Difference for Brazil

The Brazilian national team wrapped up their World Cup preparations with a narrow victory over Egypt in Cleveland, United States.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side took an early lead in the seventh minute through a strike from Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.

However, the advantage lasted only three minutes as Mostafa Ziko capitalised on a defensive error to level the score for Egypt.

Without Neymar, Brazil initially struggled to regain control of the match. Their situation worsened when defender Wesley sustained an injury and was forced off early.

The game’s momentum shifted in the second half when Ancelotti made several changes, including introducing Real Madrid’s young forward Endrick.

The substitution paid off immediately. Just seven minutes after coming on, Endrick connected with a cross from Raphinha to score the decisive goal, sealing a 2-1 win for Brazil.

The goal further reinforced Endrick’s reputation as one of Brazil’s key weapons heading into the 2026 World Cup.

Despite his youth, the forward continues to prove his ability to be a game-changer when the team needs him most.

Meanwhile, Vinicius Junior started the match and played 45 minutes. Although he did not find the net, the Real Madrid winger remained a constant threat with his pace and creativity on the flanks.

This match marked Brazil’s final test before the tournament. The Selecao will begin their Group C campaign against Morocco, Scotland, and Haiti.

Argentina Triumph Without Messi

Just as Brazil won without Neymar, reigning World Champions Argentina did the same without Lionel Messi.

The Albiceleste captain and icon was rested for the match against Honduras at Kyle Field, Texas.

Messi is in recovery after suffering muscle fatigue prior to joining the national camp.

Even without their star player, Argentina dominated in front of tens of thousands of supporters packed inside the stadium.

The opening goal came in the 37th minute via a penalty from Lautaro Martinez after Nicolas Tagliafico was fouled inside the box.

Early in the second half, Argentina doubled their lead, with Lautaro turning provider through a clever backheel assist finished by Giuliano Simeone.

Leading by two goals, coach Lionel Scaloni rotated his squad extensively to maintain fitness ahead of the tournament.

Messi remained on the bench throughout, but reports suggest his condition is improving and he is expected to feature in Argentina’s final friendly.

Argentina are set to face Iceland next before beginning their World Cup campaign in Group J, where they will meet Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.

As the defending champions, this victory provides Argentina with valuable momentum and confidence heading into their title defence.

Curacao Send Out a Strong Message

Beyond the spotlight on Brazil and Argentina, Curacao emerged as one of the standout performers in this round of friendlies.

The 2026 World Cup debutants crushed fellow Caribbean side Aruba 4-0 in a commanding display.

Remarkably, all four of Curacao’s goals came in the second half, scored by four different players: Joshua Brenet, Jeremy Antonisse, Livano Comenencia, and Juninho Bacuna.

The result showcased Curacao’s readiness for the upcoming tournament.

Though not among the favourites, La Familia Azul, now managed once again by Dick Advocaat, demonstrated that they are not heading to the World Cup merely to make up the numbers.

This will be Curacao’s first-ever appearance at a World Cup. The Caribbean island nation is also the smallest country ever to qualify for the prestigious tournament.

The 2026 World Cup will make history as the first edition to feature 48 teams, an increase from the previous 32-team format.

Football analyst Adrian from Spietalg Indonesia commented that the expanded structure primarily extends the knockout phase but still adds excitement to the tournament.

“It actually just delays the climax,” Adrian stated during the Tribunnews podcast titled “SUPER TAKTIK: Mapping the Strengths of the 2026 World Cup and Indonesia’s Dreams.”

He added that the inclusion of new teams brings fresh energy to the competition, with several nations returning after long absences and others making their debut, such as Curacao.

“Many countries are playing for the first time or returning after a long time,” he remarked.

The opening match of the 2026 World Cup is scheduled for Friday (12/6/2026) early morning WIB, featuring hosts Mexico against South Africa.

Results of Pre-2026 World Cup Friendlies, Sunday (7/6/2026)

• Brazil 2-1 Egypt
• Venezuela 1-2 Turkey
• Argentina 2-0 Honduras
• Curacao 4-0 Aruba
• USA 1-2 Germany
• Portugal 2-1 Chile
• Belgium 5-0 Tunisia
• Panama 1-1 Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Bolivia 0-4 Scotland
• Cape Verde 3-0 Bermuda
• England 1-0 New Zealand
• Qatar 0-0 El Salvador
• Jamaica 0-1 South Africa
• Switzerland 1-1 Australia

(Tribunnews.com/Tio)