Brazil let a two-goal cushion slip away as Japan pulled off a stunning 3–2 comeback victory on Tuesday afternoon at Ajinomoto Stadium.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side appeared in full command after a strong first period, only to collapse defensively after the interval. The setback marked the team’s second loss in their last three fixtures.
The visitors struck twice before the break, with Paulo Henrique and Gabriel Martinelli finding the net to give the Seleção a comfortable advantage. That early surge seemed to set them on course to preserve their long unbeaten run against the Asian side, which stretched to 13 games.
Defensive errors prove costly
The momentum shifted drastically after halftime. Fabrício Bruno made two critical mistakes at the back, allowing Takumi Minamino and Keito Nakamura to bring the hosts level.
Vinícius Júnior, who left the field in the 57th minute for Matheus Cunha, could only watch from the sidelines as the match slipped away. With him off, the responsibility fell to Rodrygo and Manchester United’s star forward to find a decisive goal.
Japan, however, capitalized on their growing confidence. In the 71st minute, Ayase Ueda rose highest to head in the winner, sealing the home side’s first-ever triumph over the five-time world champions.
Real Madrid forwards fail to make impact
Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo struggled to replicate their standout displays from Brazil’s 5–0 thrashing of South Korea earlier in the window.
The former had a particularly quiet afternoon, registering no attempts on goal, no created opportunities, and just a single touch inside the opposing penalty area during his time on the pitch.
Rodrygo made more of an impression after coming on but could not turn the tide. His 33-minute spell produced four successful dribbles and two chances created, yet he failed to rescue the team as time ran out.
Defensive reshuffle leaves gaps
Éder Militão, who completed the full 90 minutes in Seoul, was given a rest, and Arsenal’s Gabriel was also kept on the bench.
Their absence left Brazil’s backline looking vulnerable against Hajime Moriyasu’s energetic squad, and the replacement defenders were unable to cope with the pressure in the decisive moments.
