Photo: Wembley National Stadium Ltd
England beat Brazil for the first time in 23 years with 2:1 at Wembley after goals from Rooney and a spectacular strike by Frank Lampard.
The international friendly was part of the FA’s 150th anniversary and a good preparation for the World Cup Qualifiers against San Marino and Montenegro next month. The 87,453 fans at Wembley saw England starting with Walcott, Rooney and Welbeck up front. Brazil showed up with their strongest squad and started with Ronaldinho, Neymar and Luis Fabiano. The first biggest chance of the game had Ronaldinho after 19 minutes from the penalty spot. Referee Proenca made a harsh call against Wilshere who apparently touched the ball with his hand. However, Joe Hart saved the penalty against Ronaldinho and reacted superbly at the rebound. England’s confidence grew and Rooney scored the England lead only 10 minutes later in the 26th minute. Brazil keeper Cesar saved against Walcott and Rooney with the rebound from close range. His 33rd goal for England.
Both teams changed at half-time. England changed Cleverley and Cole for Baines and Lampard. Brazil brought on Fred, Lucas and Arouca. Brazil started better into the second half and equalized only 3 minutes later through Fred. Brazil was better now and almost scored the lead just second later when Fred just missed by inches. However, Frank Lampard scored the lead for England with his first touch and a superb curl from the edge of the box – 2:1 England in the 59th minute.
England convinced over most part of the game, especially Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere played a fantastic match alongside Steven Gerrard. Hodgson said after the game: “If he can keep up that level of performance he will soon justify all the expectations and hopes because he was very, very good.” Hodgson also, has to think about his strikers. England played well with Rooney as the main attacker and the fast Walcott and Welbeck on the flanks.
England will play San Marino on Friday, March 22nd at the Serravalle Stadium and Montenegro on City Tuesday, March 26th.
