Arabic version: ركلة حرة لإيرانكوندا تمنح سوكيروز تعادلاً مع البرازيل

According to ABC News, Nestory Irankunda’s free kick put Australia close to a notable win over Brazil in Townsville, before substitute Rayan scored a late equaliser for a 1-1 draw.

The 20-year-old struck from 20 metres, lifting the ball over a four-man wall and into the top corner. Irankunda told Channel 10: “I mean, good goal, good goal.” He said scoring against Brazil was “amazing” and later said he was “really disappointed” not to win.

Australia created chances in a strong first half, with Irankunda forcing a save from Hugo Souza inside the opening 10 minutes. Brazil had an Estêvão goal overturned after VAR ruled Bruno Guimarães had grabbed Harry Souttar’s leg. Brazil also believed it could have had a penalty after Lucas Herrington was seen grabbing Endrick’s shirt.

Brazil increased the pressure after Irankunda’s goal, while the Socceroos defended deep. Souttar and Herrington made key blocks, but Rayan headed a corner in off the underside of the crossbar in the 95th minute. Pat Beach got a hand to the ball but could not keep it out.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti described the Townsville pitch as “not so good to play good football.” Guimarães said Brazil should have performed much better. The teams meet again on Tuesday at Lang Park in Brisbane, with kick-off scheduled for 8:00pm AEST.