Jesse Lingard Makes History with Corinthians in Brazil

Jesse Lingard, a former Manchester United player, made headlines by scoring his first goal for Brazilian club Corinthians during their Copa do Brasil fifth round tie against Barra. The 33-year-old midfielder volleyed home the only goal of the match just before half-time, leading Corinthians to a 1-0 victory. This goal not only marked a significant moment in Lingard's career but also made him the first Englishman to score in the Copa do Brasil, a tournament comparable to England's FA Cup, featuring 126 teams from various divisions in Brazil.

Lingard's journey to Brazil began after a challenging period following his departure from Manchester United in 2022. He had a brief and largely uneventful stint at Nottingham Forest, where he failed to score in league play. Subsequently, he joined FC Seoul in 2024, where he enjoyed a successful two-year tenure, earning the Player of the Year award in 2025. After leaving Seoul, Lingard signed with Corinthians in March 2026, where he has quickly made an impact.

Corinthians currently lead their group in the Copa Libertadores, having won their first two matches. Lingard's performance has been a positive addition to the team, as they prepare to face Uruguayan side Penarol on May 1. The club's management has expressed satisfaction with Lingard's contributions since his arrival.

Despite Lingard's achievements, there are critics who question his decision to move to Brazil, suggesting that it may not be the best platform for his career at this stage. Some analysts argue that the Brazilian league does not offer the same level of competition as European leagues, potentially limiting his visibility for future opportunities.

Looking ahead, Lingard and Corinthians will aim to build on their current success in the Copa do Brasil and the Copa Libertadores. The upcoming match against Penarol will be crucial for maintaining their momentum in the group stage. Lingard's continued performance will be closely monitored as he seeks to solidify his place in the team and further his legacy in Brazilian football.

• “Lingard goes into the record books Lingard now holds the honour of being the first and only Englishman to have scored in the Copa do Brasil.” — TalkSport

Lingard's transition to Brazilian football represents a significant chapter in his career, showcasing his adaptability and skill on an international stage.