Japan stun Brazil 3-2 in Singapore with stoppage-time winner

In a nail-biting friendly match at the National Stadium in Singapore on November 15, Japan stunned Brazil with a 3-2 victory in stoppage time. Substitute Tatsuhiro Sakamoto scored the decisive goal with a deflected effort from Kodai Sano, ending a thrilling contest in front of 38,688 fans.

Japan took an early lead with two rapid goals in the opening 19 minutes. Takefusa Kubo scored in the 15th minute, capitalizing on a through ball from Ritsu Doan to beat Brazilian goalkeeper Pedro Morisco. Just two minutes later, Keito Nakamura added to Japan's advantage with a composed finish after Shuto Nakano's pinpoint cross.

Brazil responded strongly, with Vinicius Junior finding the back of the net in the 33rd minute. Despite an impressive save from Japan's Zion Suzuki, Vinicius executed a well-placed shot to give Brazil the lead. Suzuki made crucial saves from Estevao, Andre, and Raphinha, keeping the Samurai Blue under pressure.

The Selecao regained the lead in the 75th minute when Vinicius Junior equalized with another stunning finish. Cutting in from the left flank, he sent a low right-footed shot that found the net off the post. Brazil nearly broke the deadlock again, with substitute Endrick's effort hitting the crossbar and Joao Gomes's shot narrowly wide.

In a dramatic finish, Kodai Sano's deflected effort from a Sano pass in stoppage time found the back of the net past Pedro Morisco. The goal sparked celebration among the Japanese supporters, and VAR confirmed the goal, dismissing Brazil's appeals for a foul. Raphinha was subsequently sent off for his aggressive protests.