Tatsuhiro Sakamoto strikes late as Japan stuns Brazil in friendly
The match was the first meeting between the teams since Brazil's 2-1 win in the round of 32 at the World Cup in June
Japan secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over five-time world champions Brazil in an international friendly in Singapore on Saturday. The Samurai Blue took an early 2-0 lead within the opening 19 minutes, with Takefusa Kubo scoring in the 15th minute and Keito Nakamura adding a second goal four minutes later. Brazil fought back, leveling the score at 2-2 through Vinicius Junior in the 33rd minute and again in the 75th minute.
However, Japan had the final say when substitute Tatsuhiro Sakamoto scored a late winner in the 90th minute, securing a 3-2 victory for the hosts. Brazilian players and officials protested the late goal, disputing the build-up to the goal. Brazil captain Raphinha was sent off during the closing exchanges following a confrontation.
The result marked another notable win for Japan over the South American giants, following a 3-2 victory in October 2025.
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- Japan beat Brazil 3-2 in friendly tournament in Singapore channelnewsasia.com
- Japan stun Brazil 3-2 in Singapore nst.com.my
- Brazil loses 3-2 to Japan despite Vinicius brace with red cards for Ancelotti and Raphinha winnipegfreepress.com
- Japan stun Brazil 3-2 despite Vinicius brace punchng.com
