'It begins' - Bruno Guimaraes issues 29-word statement as Newcastle United watch on
Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes scored for Brazil in their final World Cup warm up match.
Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes rounded off his preparations for the World Cup in style.
Guimaraes was on the scoresheet as Brazil beat Egypt 2-1 in their final warm-up match in Cleveland, Ohio, on Sunday evening.
The 28-year-old opened the scoring just seven minutes in when he nicked the ball off Mohanad Lasheen just outside the box to drive forward and curl the ball into the bottom right corner.
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Egypt quickly equalised however, as Mostafa Ziko capitalised on a loose back pass from Marquinhos before Brazil regained the lead in the second half through Endrick.
Bruno Guimaraes praised by Brazilian media
Endrick was one of eight half-time changes, with Guimaraes among those to make way. The Magpies’ midfielder was hailed as Brazil’s best player in the first half by national outlet Globo Esporte, who handed him a 7.5/10 rating.
They wrote: “The best player on the team in the first half. Benefiting from Paquetá's entrance, he had more freedom to relieve pressure and get into the box.
“When one went forward, the other occupied the area near Casemiro. That's how he scored the goal in the first half and made several good passes, one of them leaving Igor Thiago one-on-one with the opposing goalkeeper.”
Bruno Guimaraes on scoring for Brazil
Reflecting on his performance, Guimaraes said: “Victory, goal and great performance by the entire team! This is the mentality we need to carry from now on! Saturday it begins.
“Let's go BRAZIL ❤️ 🔥🙏🏽🇧🇷. God is faithful!!!!!!!!!”
Brazil’s World Cup campaign begins against Morocco on Saturday before facing further group games against Haiti and Scotland.