Brazil cruised to a convincing 3-0 win over Ghana in a high-profile international friendly in France on Friday night.
A brilliant first half display by the South Americans proved to be the difference between sides at at Stade Oceane in Le Harve
Ghana’s troubles began before kick off when Thomas Partey pulled out of the starting line up after picking up an injury during the warm-up. The Arsenal midfielder was replaced by Iddrisu Baba.
Brazil started the game on the front foot with Lucas Paqueta coming agonizingly close to giving them a 5th minute lead but his shot just went wide of the left post.
The Seleçao were not to be denied few minutes later as Marquinhos towered above everyone to head in a cross from Raphinha.
The five-time World champions made it 2-0 on the half hour mark courtesy of Richarlison, whose shot from the edge of the box caught Ghana goalkeeper Jojo Wollacot by surprise.
Ten minutes later, Richarlison grabbed his second with a clever header from the near post to give Tite’s men a commanding 3-0 lead at the break.
The Black Stars struggled in possession while Brazil goal keeper Alisson remained largely a spectator in the first 45 minutes.
Ghana coach Otto Addo reacted by making two changes at the start of the second half.
Inaki Williams was brought on for his debut in place of Kamaldeen Sulemana, while Afena-Gyan made way for Mohammed Salisu as Ghana switched to a five-man defense.
The team responded with a much more encouraging display as they managed to keep the Brazilians at bay.
Andre Ayew came close to reducing the deficit in the 55th minute but his header landed on the cross bar.
Inaki and Kudus were the bright spots for Ghana in a relatively uneventful second half.
Ghana will next face Nicaragua in another friendly in Spain on Tuesday.
