There was quite some pressure on Richarlison before his first game as a starter for the Brazilian national team.
The Everton striker, who only got called up due to an injury picked up by Pedro, had one chance to show he deserves to fight for the number nine shirt.
That dispute for the position also includes the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino, who had scored a goal against United States on Friday.
But Richarlison never needed much time to convince he’s a real deal. It only took him four minutes against El Salvador to win a penalty, 16 to score his first goal for Brazil, and 50 to score his second.
That was more than enough for him to be the man of the match, leaving teammates like Neymar and Philippe Coutinho as mere supporting players.
The Everton star spoke to Globo after the match, and said: “I’m very happy, right. A dream come true… my first goal. I hope to do more. Now I give a sequence at Everton.”
“I’m very happy for the two goals. I was able to take the opportunity. I just have to thank my teammates. I have to work hard at my club to come back more often.”
Globo Esporte points out that Richarlison mentioned Everton three times in the interview, saying he must succeed for the Toffees so he can be called up for the national team again.
“To weigh, it always weighs. Pressure, responsibility. I’m used to playing for big clubs.”
