Rio de Janeiro, October 2(HS): Brazil national team coach Carlo Ancelotti has recalled Real Madrid trio Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Eder Militao to the squad for the upcoming international friendlies against South Korea and Japan. This marks the return of the three stars after their absence from recent fixtures, including World Cup qualifiers.Vinicius Junior was rested during September’s qualifiers, while Rodrygo had not featured for Brazil since March, struggling with form and playing time at Real Madrid.

Defender Eder Militao has also returned to the national fold after recovering from a long-term knee injury.Ancelotti emphasized the importance of fielding a competitive team in these matches, stating the games would focus on winning and building hope among fans rather than experimentation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Notably, Neymar remains sidelined with a thigh injury and will miss the friendlies.

Brazil will face South Korea in Seoul on October 10 and Japan in Tokyo on October 14 as part of their preparations for the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar