Brazilian prodigy Endrick looks to make major tournament debut at Copa America
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Endrick, the 17-year-old striker from Brazil, is set to join Real Madrid in July 2024 and is one of the most promising young stars in world football.
PHOTO: REUTERS
LOS ANGELES – Brazil’s teenage prodigy Endrick will be hoping to make his first appearance for the national team at a major tournament, when the Selecao take on Costa Rica in their Copa America opener in California on June 24.
The 17-year-old striker, who will be joining Real Madrid from Palmeiras in July, knows he has a long way to go to get a spot in the starting line-up, ahead of the likes of Raphinha, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo.
“Only God knows (when I will start),” Endrick said. “I am very grateful to have Abel (Ferreira) as a coach (at Palmeiras), he knew when to play me. Everything is now up to God and (Brazil coach) Dorival Jr... He is doing what is best for the Brazilian team.”
Dorival has used him as an impact substitute to great effect with Endrick racking up three goals after coming off the bench in Brazil’s four friendlies in 2024.
The first came in March, when he became the youngest player to score in an international match at Wembley, where they beat England 1-0.
Three days later, he was on target again in a 3-3 draw with Spain. Earlier in June, he bagged a late winner as they warmed up for Copa with a 3-2 win over Mexico.
Endrick added that, despite his youth, he does not get affected by opponents’ trash talking.
“I have always been very precocious in my life and since I became a professional I have played against opponents who have always teased me, insulted me, talked about my family, my girlfriend,” he said.
“But I got used to it quickly. I’m calm and I think in football you have to destabilise the other player to win. It’s been like that since I arrived, so I’ve adapted and I’m very confident that I can help the team.”
Brazil will also face Paraguay and Colombia in Group D.
On June 21, Chile and Peru played out a dour 0-0 draw in their Group A opener in Arlington, Texas. The result boosted the qualification hopes of Canada, who lost 2-0 to Argentina a day earlier.
Meanwhile, Mexico will hope to extend their recent unbeaten record over Jamaica in their Group B opener in Houston, Texas on June 22 (June 23, Singapore time).
Both sides have met five times in the last three years, with Mexico drawing twice and winning thrice. REUTERS
