Joelinton slated and Bruno banned – but it’s not all bad news on big night for Brazil

Just days after an emotional and historic Carabao Cup triumph at Wembley, several Newcastle United stars were back in action as the first international break of 2025 got underway.

Sandro Tonali, one of the Magpies’ key midfielders, started and scored for Italy in their UEFA Nations League quarter-final clash against Germany at the San Siro. Despite his goal, Italy fell to a 2-1 defeat, leaving Tonali and his teammates disappointed.

Meanwhile, two of Newcastle’s cup heroes, Bruno Guimarães and Joelinton, were in action for Brazil in a World Cup qualifier against Colombia, which turned out to be a night of mixed emotions for the pair.

Bruno Guimarães started the match for Brazil, but his evening took a turn when he received a yellow card in the 16th minute. The booking proved costly, as it ruled him out of Brazil’s highly anticipated World Cup qualifier against Argentina next Wednesday.

While this is a blow for the midfielder and his national team, Newcastle may quietly welcome the break it provides for Guimarães. The 27-year-old has been a pivotal figure for both club and country, and the rest could ensure he returns to Tyneside fresh and injury-free ahead of a crucial period in the season.

Guimarães was substituted in the 78th minute, replaced by Wolves’ André, but not before spending much of the match alongside his Newcastle teammate Joelinton.

Joelinton entered the fray earlier than expected, replacing the injured Gerson in the 28th minute. However, his night took a sour turn just before halftime when he was dispossessed on the edge of the box, gifting Colombia’s Luis Díaz an equalizer.

While some argued that Joelinton was fouled in the build-up, the Brazilian media did not hold back in their criticism. Globo Esporte handed him a 4/10 rating for his error and a customary yellow card, highlighting a rare off-night for the usually reliable midfielder.

Despite the setbacks, there was a silver lining for both Guimarães and Joelinton. Brazil rallied late in the match, with Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior scoring a dramatic 99th-minute winner to secure a vital 2-1 victory.

While Guimarães had already been substituted by then, Joelinton was on the pitch and looked visibly relieved as the final whistle blew. The win propelled Brazil to second place in the World Cup qualifying table, behind only Argentina, and edged them closer to securing their spot at the 2026 World Cup, which will be held across the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

As the international break continues, Newcastle fans will also be keeping an eye on their English contingent. Dan Burn, Anthony Gordon, and Tino Livramento are all in the squad for England’s match against Albania at Wembley, with hopes of earning minutes under new manager Thomas Tuchel.

For now, the focus remains on supporting Newcastle’s stars as they balance their commitments to club and country, with the Magpies’ recent success serving as a source of pride and motivation for the challenges ahead.