GOLAZONEWSBrazil falls to Japan in friendly marked by expulsions
- Brazil lost 3-2 to Japan in an international friendly match in Singapore.
- Coach Carlo Ancelotti and player Raphinha received red cards following a late decisive goal.
- Vinícius Júnior scored both goals for Brazil, which had come back from a two-goal deficit.
Brazil suffered a 3-2 defeat against Japan in an international friendly held in Singapore on Saturday. The match saw significant drama, including two red cards for the Brazilian side.
Japan took a two-goal lead before Vinícius Júnior, a Real Madrid player, scored both of Brazil's goals. His first, a strike from outside the area into the right corner at 32 minutes of the first half, reduced the deficit. Brazil then equalized, showcasing a strong reaction.
However, Japan secured the victory with a goal from Sakamoto in the 91st minute. This late goal sparked controversy, as the Brazilian team protested a perceived foul on João Gomes by Minamino in the build-up.
The protests led to coach Carlo Ancelotti being expelled after entering the field to complain. Raphinha, who was on the bench, also received a red card for his reaction. Raphinha later expressed dissatisfaction with the officiating, calling it "inadmissible," while also acknowledging the team's need for improvement and apologizing for his own expulsion.
Despite the loss, Ancelotti generally praised Brazil's performance, highlighting the team's ability to react after conceding two goals and approving the debuts of several new players. He noted that the team started well and was balanced before losing two duels.