Brazil Shocked by Japan Comeback Despite Strong Start From Seleção Stars

Real Madrid duo Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo watched in disbelief as Brazil let slip a two-goal advantage, falling 3–2 to Japan in a stunning turnaround on Tuesday afternoon.

Playing at the Ajinomoto Stadium, the home team produced three second-half goals to hand Carlo Ancelotti his second defeat since taking charge of Brazil — a surprising result for the five-time world champions, who have now dropped two of their last three matches.

The match began brightly for Brazil, who looked dominant and confident after goals from Paulo Henrique and Gabriel Martinelli put the visitors 2–0 ahead before halftime. The Seleção appeared poised to extend their 13-game unbeaten streak against Japan.

However, the momentum shifted dramatically after the break. Two rare defensive mistakes from Fabrício Bruno allowed Takumi Minamino and Keito Nakamura to draw Japan level.

With Vinícius Júnior substituted in the 57th minute for Matheus Cunha, the pressure fell on Rodrygo and the Brazilian attack to restore the lead. Yet Japan, energized by their home crowd, completed an extraordinary comeback when Ayase Ueda headed in the decisive goal in the 71st minute — marking Japan’s first-ever victory over Brazil.

Despite the loss, Vinícius and Rodrygo — both outstanding in Brazil’s 5–0 victory over South Korea days earlier — continued to demonstrate flashes of their world-class ability. Vinícius worked tirelessly on the flank, while Rodrygo showed creativity and drive in his 33-minute appearance, recording four successful dribbles and creating two chances.

Éder Militão, Real Madrid’s third representative, was rested after playing a full match against South Korea, and his absence was felt in a defense that lacked cohesion. Manager Carlo Ancelotti also chose to rest Arsenal’s Gabriel, fielding a relatively new backline that struggled to contain Japan’s late surge.

Though the result was disappointing, Brazil’s performance showed promise in attack — and Ancelotti emphasized after the game that such matches are crucial learning moments on the road to building a stronger, more resilient Seleção.