Endrick avoids punishment after striking referee during Brazil defeat by Japan

Endrick became the focus of controversy after Brazil’s 3-2 friendly defeat by Japan in Singapore, when the Real Madrid forward appeared to push and strike referee Jenson Foo during stoppage time. The incident went unpunished and drew more attention than the dismissals of Raphinha and Carlo Ancelotti.

The incident occurred as Japan attacked, with Foo’s back turned to Endrick. The Brazil player pushed the referee before appearing to hit him in the back, then continued towards the loose ball. His actions appeared to be an attempt to move the official out of his path.

Foo turned to look at Endrick immediately afterwards but took no action. He showed neither a yellow nor a red card, prompting questions over why the incident was allowed to pass without sanction.

The episode has also renewed attention on Endrick’s situation at Real Madrid. He has not been a regular starter and has generally featured as a substitute, although manager Jose Mourinho has insisted that he remain at the club despite offers for the player.

The match included several other disciplinary incidents. Raphinha was sent off after protesting against the referee’s decisions following his substitution in the 71st minute, while Ancelotti was also dismissed for his reaction to the officiating.

Raphinha watched from the substitutes’ bench as Japan scored a late goal to settle the contest. He later expressed his anger at the refereeing and described the decision as “unacceptable”. His dismissal means he will miss Brazil’s next match against Singapore.

Despite his suspension, Raphinha will remain with the Brazil squad. That was confirmed by Rodrigo Caetano, chief executive of the Brazilian Football Confederation, as the Barcelona winger faces a difficult period.

Before the match, Raphinha had been forced to defend his commitment to both club and country amid criticism over the injuries he suffers during international breaks.

Ancelotti under pressure after another Brazil defeat

The latest defeat has increased pressure on Ancelotti, with Brazil’s results declining under the Italian despite his extensive coaching record. He has recorded 12 victories, five defeats and four draws in 21 matches, giving him a 62% win rate. That compares with 86% for Tite and 81% for Carlos Dunga.

Vinicius Junior was one of the positives for Brazil, scoring both of his side’s goals against Japan. Comparisons have also been made between his international record and Raphinha’s performances for Barcelona. Raphinha has scored 12 goals in 44 international appearances, while Vinicius has 16 in 58 matches.

Former Brazil forward Romario has called for Ancelotti to leave. He said that, despite the coach’s success at club level, he had not yet shown that he could lead the national team and warned against another failure at the World Cup.

Brazil’s defeat by Japan therefore left several unresolved issues, with Endrick’s clash with the referee at the centre of the post-match debate.