Japan, Brazil, Tatsuhiro Sakamoto and Vinícius Júnior
14 November 2026
Japan beat Brazil 3-2 in a dramatic friendly at Singapore’s National Stadium, with Tatsuhiro Sakamoto scoring in stoppage time. The result avenged Japan’s World Cup defeat and followed a Brazil comeback inspired by two Vinícius Júnior goals.
Takefusa Kubo and Keito Nakamura gave Japan a two-goal lead inside 19 minutes. Vinícius equalised with goals either side of halftime before Sakamoto struck from a deflection. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti and captain Raphinha were subsequently sent off following protests.
Why It Matters
Japan secured a statement win over Brazil after surrendering a two-goal lead, while late dismissals added controversy to a high-profile Singapore friendly.