Brazil 1 France 2 – Magical Mbappe, Vinicius Junior's response, and hello cooling breaks

The Athletic's writers analyse Thursday's friendly between two World Cup heavyweights in Boston

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:09pm

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The 2026 World Cup felt a little bit closer on Thursday as five-time world champions Brazil took on France in a friendly in Boston, Massachusetts. Kylian Mbappe and Hugo Ekitike scored for France, while Vinicius Junior impressed for Brazil despite the 2-1 loss.

Why it matters

This friendly between two World Cup contenders provided a glimpse into what fans can expect at the upcoming 2026 World Cup in the United States, including high ticket prices, expensive transportation, and the need for large crowds to generate atmosphere in the open-bowl NFL stadiums being used.

The details

Mbappe opened the scoring with a clever dink over the goalkeeper in the first half, while Ekitike doubled France's lead in the second half with another well-taken finish. Brazil pulled a goal back late on through defender Bremer, but couldn't find an equalizer despite mounting pressure. The game also featured a cooling break, an absurd proposition given the cool March weather in Massachusetts.

  • The highlight of an enthralling first half came in the 32nd minute when Mbappe scored.
  • Upamecano was sent off with a VAR-upgraded red card early in the second half.
  • Bremer scored for Brazil in the 78th minute.
  • The cooling break came part way through the first half.

The players

Kylian Mbappe

The French captain and star striker, who is in his prime going into the World Cup.

Vinicius Junior

The Brazilian winger who impressed in the second half, showing his quality after a challenging season.

Dayot Upamecano

The French defender who was sent off in the second half after bringing down a Brazilian player.

Hugo Ekitike

The French striker who scored the second goal for France with another well-taken finish.

Casemiro

The Brazilian midfielder who was dispossessed in the build-up to France's opening goal.

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What they’re saying

“Just need to make sure he keeps those knees healthy. Droit et gauche.”

— Duncan White

“To see the fans was a reminder of Brazilian culture and its obsession with idols of past and present.”

— Adam Crafton

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This friendly highlighted the star power and attacking depth of both Brazil and France, two of the favorites for the 2026 World Cup. However, it also raised questions about the accessibility and affordability of attending World Cup matches for fans, with high ticket prices, expensive transportation, and crowded stadiums posing challenges.