Japan Secures Dramatic 3-2 Victory Over Brazil in Singapore

Tatsuhiro Sakamoto scored a 91st-minute winner as Japan defeated Brazil 3-2 at the National Stadium in Singapore.

Japan defeated Brazil 3-2 at Singapore's National Stadium on Saturday, securing a late victory in The Mizuho Blue Challenge. Tatsuhiro Sakamoto provided the decisive moment in the 91st minute, converting a close-range finish to break a late deadlock. This result serves as revenge for the Samurai Blue following their elimination by the South American side during the FIFA World Cup earlier in the summer.

The Japanese side established an early lead, scoring twice within the opening 19 minutes. Takefusa Kubo and Keito Nakamura each found the net during this initial surge. Brazil responded through Real Madrid attacker Vinícius Júnior, who scored twice to level the match with 15 minutes of regulation time remaining.

Following the winning goal, tensions escalated regarding an incident in the build-up to Sakamoto's strike. Referee Jansen Foo issued red cards to Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti and captain Raphinha after both individuals aggressively confronted the official. According to ESPN, the match took place on November 14, 2026.