Japan stun Brazil as Vinicius double is overshadowed by late defeat

Japan came from two goals down to beat Brazil 3-2 in a dramatic friendly at Singapore’s National Stadium on Saturday, with Vinicius Junior scoring twice before Tatsuhiro Sakamoto struck in added time. The match, part of Brazil’s Asian tour during the November international break, also saw Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti and Barcelona forward Raphinha sent off.

The result gave Japan revenge for their 2-1 defeat by Brazil in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup. It was also Ancelotti’s fifth loss in 21 matches since taking charge of the Brazil national team, raising further questions over the consistency of the side under the Italian.

Japan make fast start

Japan began aggressively and took the lead in the 15th minute. Takefusa Kubo collected Ritsu Doan’s pass, moved into the penalty area and finished with his left foot beyond Brazil goalkeeper Morisco.

The hosts doubled their advantage only four minutes later. Shuto Nakano sent a low cross into the box and Kaito Nakamura calmly directed his shot into the bottom-right corner, leaving Brazil unsettled and facing a difficult task.

Brazil needed an individual moment to get back into the contest, and Vinicius Junior provided it in the 33rd minute. Bruno Guimaraes found him just outside the area, where the Real Madrid forward unleashed a powerful strike that the Japan goalkeeper could not keep out.

The goal offered Vinicius a timely boost after a difficult spell in front of goal. He had been under pressure because of his reduced scoring return for Real Madrid, but his finish demonstrated the threat he can pose when space opens up.

Vinicius completed his comeback in the 75th minute. Once again supplied by Bruno Guimaraes, he struck a fierce effort which hit the left post before crossing the line to make it 2-2.

The two goals ended Vinicius’ wait for a Brazil goal, having last scored for his country in September. His most recent goal for Real Madrid had come in August.

Late Japan winner

Brazil appeared to have recovered after trailing by two, but Japan delivered the decisive blow in the first minute of added time. Sakamoto found the net in the 90+1st minute to complete a 3-2 win and spark celebrations among the home supporters.

Tensions rose on the touchline during the closing stages, with Ancelotti dismissed. Raphinha was also shown a red card and will miss Brazil’s next match against Singapore.

The frustration continued after the final whistle, as Brazil’s players and coaching staff approached the referee to protest several decisions. Security personnel intervened to protect the officials and calm the situation.

The Japan fixture was the first match of Brazil’s Asian tour, during which Ancelotti is assessing several players before settling on his options for future commitments. Brazil will finish the camp against Singapore at the same stadium on Tuesday, when Ancelotti will have the opportunity to address the errors exposed by this defeat.