Brazil's World Cup Hopes Hit Snag as Tunisia Hold Five-Time Champions to 1-1 Draw

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Brazil's preparations for the 2026 World Cup suffered a setback as they were held to a 1-1 friendly draw by Tunisia in Lille on Tuesday. Carlo Ancelotti's team, which includes in-form striker Estevao, was expected to make a strong statement ahead of next year's tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, Tunisia's surprise 1-0 lead in the first half, courtesy of Hazem Mastouri's composed finish, put the Brazilians on back foot. Estevao, who scored a penalty against Senegal on Saturday, equalized for Brazil just before halftime with a penalty of his own. However, the Selecao's chances of securing a win were squandered when Lucas Paqueta missed a penalty with 12 minutes remaining. Brazil thought they should have been awarded a third penalty in the 89th minute, but the referee stuck with his original decision. The draw is a disappointing result for Brazil, which finished fifth in South American qualifying and suffered a 3-2 loss to Japan in a previous friendly. Tunisia's victory, meanwhile, boosts their confidence ahead of their World Cup debut next year. Elsewhere, Senegal thrashed Kenya 8-0, while African champions the Ivory Coast bounced back from a loss to Saudi Arabia with a 2-0 win over Oman.