TOKYO (AP) — Japan fought back from a two-goal deficit to beat Brazil for the first time Tuesday, 3-2, in a friendly at Ajinomoto Stadium.
Ayase Ueda scored the winning goal with a header in the 71st minute, and the packed crowd erupted in joy.
Japan achieved a historic first victory over the South American powerhouse in their 14th attempt.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti made several changes to the side that won 5-0 against South Korea four days ago, but the five-time world champions continued their strong form in Seoul with a dominant first half in the Japanese capital.
Goals from Paulo Enrique and Gabriel Martinelli made it look like the visitors had taken the lead at half-time, sealing their 12th victory over Japan.
However, seven minutes after the restart, Takumi Minamino took advantage of a mistake by Fabricio Bruno and scored a goal from inside the area. Just after the first hour, Japan tied the score when Keito Nakamura’s shot deflected off Bruno.
Both teams have already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
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