Brighton's Joao Pedro replaces Flamengo's Pedro in Brazil call-up

Brighton striker Joao Pedro was called up by Brazil coach Dorival Junior on Wednesday to replace Flamengo's Pedro in the 'Selecao's next two World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay.
The striker is expected on Thursday in the city of Curitiba, where Brazil will host Ecuador, according to a statement from the Brazilian Football Confederation.
The 22-year-old Joao Pedro was called up at the last minute by the Brazil coach after the Flamengo and Brazilian league top scorer suffered a sprained left knee during training in the capital of Parana on Wednesday, where Brazil will host Ecuador on Friday.
Joao Pedro is one of Brighton's standout performers and has already scored twice in the opening rounds of the recent season against Manchester United and Arsenal.
With Pedro, there are now three players left out of the national team, as Yan Couto and Savinho had to give their places to Cruzeiro's Willian and Sao Paulo's Lucas Moura after suffering injuries. After the match against Ecuador, the ‘Selecao’ will play Paraguay in Asuncion.
The ‘Verdeamarelos’ are in a delicate situation, in sixth place, with a poor record of two wins, one draw and three defeats, and are a long way behind Argentina, who lead the standings with 15 points.
Brazil are also coming off the back of another disappointment after losing to Uruguay in the quarter-finals of the Copa America 2024 in the United States.