Japan National Team Defeats Brazil 3-2, Keito Nakamura Demonstrates Scoring Ability

Key points

On November 14, 2026, at the Singapore National Stadium, the Japan national soccer team defeated Brazil 3-2 in an international friendly. Takefusa Kubo and Keito Nakamura scored in the first half to take the lead. Although Brazil equalized in the second half, Tatsuhiro Sakamoto scored the winning goal in stoppage time. This match was the last under coach Hajime Moriyasu's leadership. Nakamura recorded his second goal against Brazil, demonstrating his scoring ability. Expectations are high for upcoming matches. [1] [2]

Match Overview and Result

At 19:15 on November 14, 2026, at the Singapore National Stadium, the Japan national team defeated Brazil 3-2 in an international friendly. The match featured intense offense and defense, with Japan ultimately prevailing. This victory marked Japan's second-ever win against Brazil, the first since October of the previous year. For coach Hajime Moriyasu, this was his final match leading the Japan national team. His last game will be against Paraguay on November 17. Japan had previously lost to Brazil in the Round of 16 at the CONCACAF World Cup in June, making this match a form of revenge. [1] [2] [3] [5]

From the start, Japan controlled the game and scored two goals in the first half. Brazil equalized in the second half, but Tatsuhiro Sakamoto scored the winning goal in stoppage time, securing a dramatic victory. This win was valuable for the team ahead of Moriyasu's departure. Japan is ranked 17th in the FIFA rankings, while Brazil is 6th, making this an impressive victory over a higher-ranked opponent. The match kicked off at 19:15 Japan time. [2] [3] [4] [5]

Japan National Team's Scoring Progress and Player Performances

Takefusa Kubo opened the scoring in the 15th minute of the first half, followed by Keito Nakamura scoring the second goal in the 19th minute. Nakamura's goal came from a low cross sent near the goal line by right-back Shuto Nakano. Kubo intentionally let the ball pass, allowing Nakamura, positioned at the far post, to finish with his right foot into the left side of the goal. This was Nakamura's second goal against Brazil, having also scored in a friendly last October. After the match, Nakamura said, "I was unmarked, so I want to thank my teammates." Kubo reflected on the goal, saying, "I thought I had an advantage because I am more agile." [1] [2] [5]

In the second half, Brazil's Vinícius Júnior scored twice to equalize. However, in the first minute of stoppage time, substitute Tatsuhiro Sakamoto scored the winning goal. This was Sakamoto's first goal for the senior national team and came after a 5½-year absence from the squad. He scored by pushing in a rebound from Kodai Sano's shot with his right foot. After the match, Sakamoto said, "It is deeply moving to return to the national team and score a goal in the year I turn 30." His goal decisively secured Japan's victory. [2] [4]

Match Background and Coach's Situation

Japan had been defeated by Brazil in the Round of 16 at the CONCACAF World Cup in June 2026, so this match carried strong significance as revenge. Brazil is ranked 6th in the FIFA rankings, while Japan is 17th, making this victory over a higher-ranked opponent a significant achievement. This win marked Japan's second-ever victory against Brazil, the first being in a friendly last October, showing improvement in recent encounters. Coach Hajime Moriyasu has led the Japan national team for over eight years, and this was his final match in charge, with his last game scheduled against Paraguay on November 17. [2] [3]

Moriyasu's departure represents a major milestone for the team, and the players raised their morale ahead of his final matches. This victory expressed gratitude toward the coach and demonstrated the team's growth. Moving forward, preparations under a new management structure are expected as the team looks toward upcoming international tournaments. Japan is expected to build on the confidence gained from this match in future games. Moriyasu's achievements have been recognized, and the players have expressed appreciation for his leadership. Attention is focused on the future direction of the national team. [3]