Endrick Sets Sights On Copa America Success For Brazil Against Costa Rica

Endrick is optimistic about aiding Brazil in securing their 10th Copa America title as he gears up for his first international tournament with the Selecao Canarinho. Brazil will commence their campaign at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on Monday against Costa Rica. Dorival Junior's squad will also face Paraguay and Colombia in Group E, aiming to improve on their runner-up finish in the 2021 final against Argentina.

The 17-year-old, who officially joins Real Madrid next month, has netted three goals in his last four games for Brazil but acknowledges the need for patience regarding his playing time at the Copa America. "Only God knows [when I will start]," Endrick said. "I am very grateful to have Abel [Ferreira] as a coach; he knew when to play me. Everything is up to God and Dorival Junior, the professor. He is a spectacular coach. He is doing what is best for the Brazilian team."

Endrick also reflected on his early career challenges, noting, "I have always been very precocious in my life and since I became a professional I have played against opponents who have always teased me, insulted me, talked about my family, my girlfriend. But I got used to it quickly because I was 16. I'm calm, and I hope I can help."

Te amo Brasil vamos juntos sempre!!

Gustavo Alfaro brings experience to Costa Rica, having guided Ecuador to the quarter-finals of the previous Copa America in 2021. The 61-year-old also led them to the World Cup the following year, where they opened with a 2-0 win against hosts Qatar before drawing 1-1 with the Netherlands but failed to advance past the group stage after a 2-1 loss to Senegal.

However, Alfaro faces a different challenge with Los Ticos. Costa Rica has not progressed beyond the group stages in their last two appearances; they last did so in 2004. Despite this, recent form offers optimism. Costa Rica has won four of their previous six international fixtures, losing only once (3-1 to Argentina). They have not conceded in any of their last three competitive fixtures and have won 15 of their previous 16 encounters when scoring first.

Players to Watch

Brazil - Vinicius Junior: Vinicius Junior had an outstanding season with Real Madrid, contributing significantly to their LaLiga and Champions League successes in 2023-24. Securing his first international honour could position the 23-year-old favourably for the Ballon d'Or. Vinicius recorded 35 goal involvements (24 goals and 11 assists) in 39 appearances across all competitions for Real Madrid.

Costa Rica - Manfred Ugalde: After struggling initially with Spartak Moscow following his move from FC Twente in January, Ugalde found his scoring touch just in time for the tournament. The 22-year-old striker scored one goal and provided three assists in Costa Rica's CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers against Grenada and Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Match Prediction: Brazil Win

Brazil and Costa Rica have met twice in Copa America history, with both matches resulting in victories for Brazil—5-0 in 1997 and 4-1 in 2004. The Selecao Canarinho have won 10 of their 11 meetings against Costa Rica, with their last defeat dating back to March 1960 during the Panamerican Championship (3-0). Brazil is expected to continue their nine-game unbeaten run.

Costa Rica will aim to maintain their strong record against CONMEBOL teams at the Copa America, having lost just one of their last four matches (W2 D1). Gustavo Alfaro's side will seek consecutive victories against CONMEBOL opponents for the first time after defeating Colombia 3-2 in the 2016 edition.

Opta Win Probability