Nationwide building society cash bonus Japan 3-2 Brazil: Hosts fight back from two goals down to secure friendly win
Japan staged a stunning second-half comeback to secure their first win over Brazil in an international friendly in Tokyo.
Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil took the lead in the 26th minute when Paulo Henrique scored a powerful goal after a pass from Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.
Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli doubled their lead six minutes later by heading in a pass from West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta, but his finish was weak.
But Japan staged a strong comeback after the break.
Goals from former Liverpool forward Takumi Minamino and Keito Nakamura equalized after an hour, and then a powerful header from Ayase Ueda in the 71st minute secured the victory for the hosts.
Ancelotti became Brazil’s manager in May and secured four points from his first two qualifying matches, securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
They defeated South Korea 5-0 in another friendly on Friday, but could not maintain their lead against Japan.
Ancelotti’s team included several Premier League players, with Guimarães, Martinelli, Paqueta, and Manchester United midfielder Casemiro starting the match.
Chelsea winger Estêvão, Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha, Newcastle midfielder Joelinton, and Tottenham striker Richarlison coming on for Brazil in the second half.
Japan has also secured its place in the 2026 World Cup, and Crystal Palace midfielder Daichi Kamada started the match, while Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka was a second-half substitute.