France Defeats Brazil in Pre-World Cup Friendly

Familiar faces on both sides as Kante, Ederson, and Sara feature in the match

Mar. 27, 2026 at 1:06am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a pre-2026 FIFA World Cup friendly match held at Gillette Stadium in Boston, the French national team defeated Brazil 2-1. France took a 1-0 lead in the first half through a goal by Kylian Mbappe, and extended their advantage to 2-0 in the second half with a strike from Hugo Ekitike. Brazil pulled a goal back late through Gleison Bremer, but could not find an equalizer. The match featured several players with ties to the Turkish Süper Lig, including Fenerbahçe's Ederson starting in goal for Brazil and coming on as a substitute for Galatasaray's Gabriel Sara.

Why it matters

This match provided an important test for both teams ahead of the upcoming 2026 World Cup, with France and Brazil considered among the favorites to lift the trophy. The presence of players like N'Golo Kante, Ederson, and Gabriel Sara added an interesting subplot, highlighting the growing global reach and talent pool of the Turkish league.

The details

France took the lead in the 32nd minute through a goal from Kylian Mbappe. Brazil were reduced to 10 men in the 55th minute when Dayot Upamecano was shown a red card, and France took advantage to make it 2-0 through a strike by Hugo Ekitike in the 65th minute. Brazil pulled a goal back in the 78th minute through Gleison Bremer, but could not find an equalizer.

  • The match was played on March 27, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts.
  • France took a 1-0 lead in the 32nd minute through Kylian Mbappe's goal.
  • Brazil were reduced to 10 men in the 55th minute when Dayot Upamecano was sent off.
  • Hugo Ekitike scored France's second goal in the 65th minute to make it 2-0.
  • Gleison Bremer pulled a goal back for Brazil in the 78th minute.

The players

Kylian Mbappe

French forward who scored the opening goal for France.

Ederson

Brazilian goalkeeper who plays for Fenerbahçe in the Turkish Süper Lig.

Gabriel Sara

Brazilian midfielder who plays for Galatasaray in the Turkish Süper Lig.

N'Golo Kante

French midfielder who came on as a substitute for France.

Gleison Bremer

Brazilian defender who scored Brazil's lone goal in the match.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was a tough match against a very strong Brazil team, but I'm proud of the way we fought and got the win.”

— Kylian Mbappe, French Forward

“We gave it our all, but the red card really hurt us and France took advantage. We'll learn from this experience ahead of the World Cup.”

— Ederson, Brazilian Goalkeeper

What’s next

Both teams will continue their World Cup preparations with additional friendlies in the coming months, as they look to fine-tune their squads and tactics ahead of the tournament.

The takeaway

This match showcased the depth of talent in world football, with players from the Turkish Süper Lig like Ederson and Gabriel Sara featuring prominently alongside global superstars. It underscores how the sport continues to grow and evolve on a global scale.