Japan Edges Brazil 3-2 in Friendly Match as Key Players Are Sent Off
Internationals
Japan 3 – 2 Brazil FT
Carlo Ancelotti became Brazil coach in 2025 and signed a contract extension to the 2030 World Cup earlier this year [Getty Images]
Brazil experienced a frustrating defeat against Japan in a friendly match held in Singapore, as manager Carlo Ancelotti and captain Raphinha were both shown red cards. The dismissal came in stoppage time after Japan’s Tatsuhiro Sakamoto scored the match-winning goal in the 91st minute.
Ancelotti and Raphinha reacted post-match after Brazil raised concerns over a possible foul during the play leading to the goal, where Aston Villa midfielder Joao Gomes lost possession.
Following the final whistle, tensions escalated, prompting security staff to intervene as several Brazilian players confronted match officials, including Singaporean referee Jansen Foo.
Vinicius Jr. played a pivotal role for Brazil, who initially fell behind 2-0 within the opening 19 minutes due to goals from Takefusa Kubo and Keito Nakamura. Vinicius netted twice, including a stunning equalizer that curled past the goalkeeper. Raphinha and Ancelotti were notably upset when a penalty appeal for a foul on Raphinha was denied earlier in the first half.
Although Raphinha had been substituted by Real Madrid’s Endrick in the 71st minute, he continued to express his displeasure at the officiating as he left the pitch, which led to his sending off.
This match marks Brazil’s second 3-2 loss to Japan in just over a year, having suffered a similar result in a friendly encounter last year. The teams also met in the last 32 of the recent World Cup, where Brazil emerged victorious with a 2-1 win before being eliminated by Norway in the following round.
