Follow Us on Google
Japan defeated Brazil 3-2 in an international friendly in Singapore on Saturday, scoring a late winner to hand the five-time world champions a disappointing defeat.
The Samurai Blue took a two-goal lead in the opening 19 minutes through Takefusa Kubo and Keito Nakamura before Brazil fought back to level the score.
Kubo opened the scoring in the 15th minute after receiving a pass from Ritsu Doan, while Nakamura doubled Japan’s advantage four minutes later following a cross from Shuto Nakano.
Brazil reduced the deficit in the 33rd minute when Vinicius Junior scored with a long-range effort after being set up by Bruno Guimaraes.
The Real Madrid forward completed his brace in the 75th minute, again finding the net from outside the penalty area to bring Brazil level at 2-2.
Other News
Brazil pushed for a winning goal after drawing level, but Japan had the final say through substitute Tatsuhiro Sakamoto, who scored in the 90th minute to secure the victory.
The late goal sparked protests from Brazilian players and officials, who disputed the circumstances surrounding the build-up.
Brazil captain Raphinha was sent off during the closing stages following the confrontation.
The result marked another victory for Japan over Brazil, having also defeated the South American side 3-2 in October 2025.
Brazil will now turn their attention to their next international friendly against Singapore on Tuesday.
