Paquetá Penalty Miss Costs Brazil Victory

Brazil concluded their year with a draw, marred by Lucas Paquetá's missed penalty in the latter stages of their match against France. Estêvão had successfully converted a penalty in the 44th minute to level the score. However, coach Carlo Ancelotti opted to have Paquetá take a subsequent penalty in the 77th minute, a decision that ultimately proved costly as the West Ham midfielder shot over the bar.

Ancelotti stated his intention was to relieve pressure from the young Estêvão, who had been chosen for the first penalty. Paquetá, apologizing for his miss, cited anxiety as the reason for his failure to convert, despite his usual success with penalties at his club. Estêvão, who has scored five goals in eleven appearances for Brazil and recently joined Chelsea, reflected on the special year and his happiness representing his country, despite the team's winless streak.

The encounter in Lille, France, saw Brazil unable to secure a victory, ending the year on a disappointing note. Both Paquetá and Estêvão expressed their commitment to improving from the experience, with Paquetá aiming to convert future opportunities and Estêvão focusing on the positives of his national team call-up and performance.