Rayan’s stoppage-time header earns Brazil draw against Australia

Brazil substitute Rayan scored in the 95th minute to secure a 1-1 draw against Australia in a competitive international friendly in Townsville on Friday.

The result denied the hosts what would have been only their second victory over the South American giants, after Australia had appeared on course for a notable win in front of a sell-out crowd in North Queensland.

Nestory Irankunda put the Socceroos ahead with an outstanding free-kick midway through the second half. But Brazil applied sustained pressure late on, and Rayan’s powerful header from a corner proved too strong for Australia goalkeeper Patrick Beach to keep out.

“It was a difficult game,” Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti said.

“The pitch was not so good to play good football on, but we showed fight until the end.

“I think it was a good test for us.”

Australia made the more forceful start, controlling possession and territory while using the width of the pitch to attack Brazil from both sides.

Connor Metcalfe went close in the third minute before Irankunda forced a strong save from Brazil goalkeeper Hugo Souza with a powerful effort.

Brazil gradually settled and began to create chances through Barcelona striker Raphinha and Chelsea forward Estevao.

Raphinha headed straight at Beach after 20 minutes, while Estevao tested the Australia goalkeeper with a dangerous attempt five minutes later.

The visitors thought they had taken the lead in the 46th minute when Estevao found the net, but a VAR review ruled out the goal because of an earlier foul on Australia captain Harry Soutar.

Brazil continued to control the centre of the pitch after the interval, while Australia looked to exploit space in wide areas. The visitors were beginning to edge the contest and appeared likely to score before Irankunda produced a moment of individual quality.

With the two teams level at 0-0 midway through the second half, the Australian youngster sent a superb free-kick over the defensive wall and into the net. Souza was left rooted to the spot as the ball flew beyond him.

Australia then retreated deeper and defended with increasing determination as Brazil pushed forward. The Socceroos appeared to have done enough to claim the win, but Brazil’s pressure finally told in added time.

A late corner found Rayan, whose header in the 95th minute beat Beach and preserved a draw for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

The outcome reflected an even contest between two teams attempting to rebuild after early exits from this year’s World Cup. Both sides committed fully to the match, with Australia making the stronger opening and Brazil finishing with the greater intensity.