Japan recorded a landmark victory on Tuesday night, defeating Brazil for the first time in history with a thrilling 3–2 comeback at the Ajinomoto Stadium in Tokyo.
The Samurai Blue, trailing 2–0 at halftime, produced a spirited second-half fightback to overturn the deficit against the five-time world champions. Ayase Ueda completed the turnaround with a decisive header in the 71st minute, sending the sell-out home crowd into rapturous celebration.
The result marked Japan’s first-ever win over Brazil in 14 attempts, ending decades of frustration against the South American giants.
Brazil, under coach Carlo Ancelotti, appeared to be cruising after a dominant opening half. Goals from Paulo Henrique and Gabriel Martinelli put the visitors in firm control, following up their 5–0 demolition of South Korea four days earlier.
But the match turned dramatically after the break. In the 52nd minute, Takumi Minamino pounced on a defensive error by Fabricio Bruno to pull one back for Japan. Just ten minutes later, Keito Nakamura’s low strike deflected off Bruno to level the contest.
With momentum firmly on their side, Japan continued to press and were rewarded when Ueda rose highest to head home the winner midway through the second half.
Despite late pressure from Brazil, Japan held firm to secure a memorable victory that underscored their growing stature in world football.
Both teams have already booked their places at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For Japan, the result will serve as a major confidence boost heading into the global showpiece.
AloJapan.com