Endrick needed only two touches to score on his Real Madrid debut, giving Jose Mourinho’s side an ideal start to their friendly against Fiorentina and an early indication that the Brazilian forward is ready for the new season.
The 12th-minute opener came after Alvaro Carreras delivered a cross from the left into the penalty area. Endrick took control of the ball and finished with his next touch, beating Fiorentina goalkeeper David de Gea to put Real Madrid 1-0 ahead.
The goal was the product of a swift sequence: control and shot. Endrick’s ability to make an immediate decision inside the area allowed him to take full advantage of Carreras’ delivery and leave de Gea with little opportunity to prevent the finish.
It was a promising first appearance for the young Brazil international, who is attempting to establish himself at Real Madrid amid strong competition for places in the club’s attack. His early contribution demonstrated both his quick reactions and his capacity to provide a decisive moment when the opportunity presented itself.
The early advantage also gave Real Madrid greater control of their first official pre-season friendly under Mourinho. With the pressure of the scoreline reduced, the Portuguese manager was able to use the match to assess further tactical options as preparations for the upcoming campaign continued.
For Endrick, the appearance represented an important opportunity to show that he can contribute immediately at one of the world’s most demanding clubs. His opening goal offered a highly encouraging start, while also highlighting the sharpness and composure he can bring in front of goal.
The fixture against Fiorentina forms part of Real Madrid’s wider programme of friendly matches before the new season begins. The club had already played two training games against Alcorcon and Leganes at the Valdebebas training centre.
Those earlier matches were part of Mourinho’s preparations to build understanding among his squad and assess his players’ fitness before the competitive fixtures begin. The meeting with Fiorentina provided a further stage for that process, with the focus on developing cohesion, examining tactical alternatives and measuring the readiness of the team.
Endrick’s goal ensured that the most notable moment of the match came early. After receiving Carreras’ cross, he required only a touch to bring the ball under control before striking beyond de Gea. That concise finish gave Mourinho an immediate reason to be encouraged by the Brazilian’s first outing in a Real Madrid shirt.
The forward will now look to build on that start as Real Madrid continue their pre-season schedule. His debut could hardly have begun more effectively, with his speed of thought and finishing ability helping the club take an early lead while preparations for the new campaign gathered pace.
