Japan stunned Brazil early when Kaishu Sano capitalized on a defensive lapse by Danilo to put them ahead. The Samurai Blue’s defensive organization frustrated Brazil for much of the first half, Softfootball reports.
Carlo Ancelotti’s substitutions proved crucial. Casemiro equalized after the break, and later Gabriel Martinelli struck following a turnover forced by Rayan and an assist from Bruno Guimarães — his fourth of the tournament.
Vinícius Júnior and Matheus Cunha were quieter than in previous matches, but Brazil’s depth carried them through. Japan, despite their resilience, were undone by Brazil’s second-half surge.
earlier today South Africa exited the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 1-0 defeat to Canada.
Player Ratings
Brazil
| Player | Rating |
|---|---|
| Alisson Becker | 5 |
| Douglas Santos | 6 |
| Gabriel | 7 |
| Marquinhos | 6 |
| Danilo | 4 |
| Lucas Paquetá | 6 |
| Casemiro | 7 |
| Bruno Guimarães | 8 (Man of the Match) |
| Vinícius Júnior | 7 |
| Matheus Cunha | 6 |
| Rayan | 6 |
| Subs: Endrick (6), Gabriel Martinelli (7), Fabinho (6), Danilo Santos (N/A) |
Japan
| Player | Rating |
|---|---|
| Zion Suzuki | 7 |
| Hiroki Ito | 6 |
| Shogo Taniguchi | 7 |
| Takehiro Tomiyasu | 7 |
| Keito Nakamura | 6 |
| Daichi Kamada | 6 |
| Kaishu Sano | 7 (Goalscorer) |
| Ritsu Doan | 6 |
| Daizen Maeda | 6 |
| Junya Ito | 6 |
| Ayase Ueda | 6 |
| Subs: Yukinari Sugawara (5), Junnosuke Suzuki (5), Ao Tanaka (5), Shuto Machino (5), Koki Ogawa (N/A) |
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Brazil | Japan |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 58% | 42% |
| Total Shots | 14 | 9 |
| Shots on Target | 6 | 3 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 1.97 | 0.88 |
| Fouls Committed | 12 | 13 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 2 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 0 |
| Corners | 6 | 4 |
| Saves | 2 | 4 |
