Rayan's Late Header Denies Australia Historic Win Over Brazil

Australia came within seconds of a first win over Brazil in 25 years, before substitute Rayan struck a stoppage-time header to earn the five-time world champions a 1-1 draw in a sold-out friendly in Townsville.

The Socceroos were the better side for long stretches, pressing Brazil high and forcing repeated errors from Carlo Ancelotti's side. They were rewarded in the 68th minute when Nestory Irankunda stepped up to a free-kick and drilled it over the wall and past goalkeeper Hugo Souza, sending the home crowd into raptures. Brazil had earlier had a goal ruled out by VAR before half-time, with Estevao's effort chalked off after a foul on Harry Souttar in the build-up.

Brazil poured forward in search of an equaliser as the game entered its closing stages, with Patrick Beach twice denying Raphinha with fine saves. The visitors' persistence finally paid off in the fifth minute of stoppage time, when Bournemouth forward Rayan, on for just 19 minutes, rose above the Australian defence to head home a recycled corner and snatch a draw.

The two sides meet again on Tuesday, before Brazil travel to India for a friendly on October 3.