Estevao’s stunning bicycle kick sparked a dominant 3-0 victory for Brazil over Chile in a World Cup qualifier. Brazil moved to second in the qualifying table, while Chile struggled. Estevao became the youngest Brazilian to score a competitive goal since Pele in 1958. Brazil accumulated 3.95 xG from 22 shots, while Chile failed to get any of their three efforts on target. The match highlighted Brazil’s strength and Chile’s challenges.
A sensational bicycle kick goal from Estevao ignited Brazil's commanding 3-0 triumph over Chile in a crucial World Cup qualifier. The victory propelled Brazil to second place in the South American qualifying standings, while Chile's struggles deepened as they failed to mount a significant challenge against Carlo Ancelotti's squad in his inaugural match at the iconic Maracana.
The match began with early drama as Casemiro's glancing header was disallowed for offside just four minutes into the game. However, the Brazilian onslaught was only momentarily delayed. In the 38th minute, Estevao etched his name into the history books with a moment of sheer brilliance. After Lawrence Vigouroux, the Chilean goalkeeper, managed to smother Raphinha's shot from the left, Estevao reacted with lightning speed. As the ball looped towards the goal line, he unleashed a spectacular bicycle kick, maneuvering between two defenders to propel the ball over the line, sending the Maracana into a frenzy.
Brazil's relentless pursuit of goals continued, with Gabriel Martinelli narrowly missing an opportunity to double the lead moments later, dragging his shot wide. The intensity of the match escalated further when Guillermo Maripan's challenge on Wesley initially resulted in a red card for clipping the latter's Achilles. However, after a VAR review, the decision was downgraded to a yellow card, much to the relief of the Chilean contingent, just before the halftime whistle.
The introduction of Lucas Paqueta as a substitute in the second half proved to be a masterstroke by Ancelotti. Paqueta wasted no time in making his presence felt, soaring high to meet Luiz Henrique's pinpoint cross with a powerful header that nestled into the top corner in the 72nd minute, extending Brazil's advantage.
Just four minutes later, Brazil sealed their comprehensive victory with a third goal. Luiz Henrique, displaying exquisite skill and composure, struck the underside of the crossbar after a delightful give-and-go exchange with Bruno Guimaraes. Guimaraes, ever alert, was on hand to pounce on the rebound, tapping the ball over the line to complete a dominant performance for the Selecao.
FIM DE JOGO!
3-0
Maracanã
Rio de Janeiro
ISSO É BRASIL!
— brasil (@CBF_Futebol) September 5, 2025
Data Debrief: Estevao Joins Pele in Brazilian Football Lore
Estevao's remarkable goal not only secured a crucial victory for Brazil but also etched his name alongside the legendary Pele in Brazilian football history. At the tender age of 18, Estevao became the youngest Brazilian player to score a competitive goal since a 17-year-old Pele dazzled the world at the 1958 World Cup. This achievement underscores Estevao's immense potential and marks him as a rising star in Brazilian football.
Brazil's victory was a testament to their dominance throughout the match. They consistently denied Chile any meaningful opportunities to penetrate their defense, accumulating an impressive 3.95 expected goals (xG) from a barrage of 22 shots. Their relentless attacking pressure and solid defensive structure proved too much for Chile to handle.
In stark contrast, Chile, who currently languish at the bottom of the qualifying table, struggled to make an impact on the game. They failed to register a single shot on target from their three attempts (0.03 xG), marking the first time they have failed to test a goalkeeper in a competitive match since October 2012 against Ecuador. This statistic highlights the challenges they face and the urgent need for improvement if they aspire to qualify for the World Cup.
The match served as a resounding statement of intent from Brazil, showcasing their attacking prowess and defensive resilience. With Carlo Ancelotti at the helm, Brazil looks poised to continue their strong showing in the World Cup qualifiers and solidify their position as one of the favorites to lift the trophy in the tournament.