Vinicius Junior strikes twice as Brazil recover from Japan scare

Brazil came from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Japan as Vinicius Junior scored twice, producing a timely response to growing criticism of his form at Real Madrid.

The match was the opening fixture of Brazil’s Asian tour during the November international break. Carlo Ancelotti’s side are using the two friendlies to assess players and settle on the strongest possible team ahead of their upcoming commitments.

Japan stunned Brazil with two goals in four minutes. Takefusa Kubo opened the scoring in the 15th minute after receiving a precise pass from Ritsu Doan, cutting into the penalty area and firing a left-footed shot beyond Morisco.

Japan doubled their advantage in the 19th minute. Shuto Nakano sent a low cross into the box and Kaito Nakamura met it with a composed finish into the right side of the net, leaving Brazil facing an early setback.

Vinicius gave Brazil a lifeline eight minutes before half-time. Bruno Guimaraes found him outside the penalty area and the Real Madrid forward unleashed a powerful strike which the Japan goalkeeper could not keep out.

The goal carried particular significance for Vinicius, who has faced increasing pressure at Real Madrid because of a decline in his attacking output. Spanish newspaper Marca described it as “a great goal from Vinicius Junior to redeem himself at a difficult time for him at Real Madrid, with his suspension continuing and criticism of his performances”.

Mundo Deportivo also praised the finish, saying: “The Real Madrid player recovered his scoring touch by scoring a wonderful goal in the match between Brazil and Japan. Vinicius unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area and the ball settled in the top corner. This goal restored hope for Brazil, who until then had been far below Japan’s level.”

Vinicius completed his double in the 75th minute after another pass from Bruno Guimaraes. His powerful effort struck the left post before crossing the line, bringing Brazil level at 2-2 and restoring the forward’s attacking threat.

The two goals were especially notable in light of his record for Real Madrid this season. According to Transfermarkt, Vinicius had scored only once for the club in all competitions, against Real Sociedad, while providing three assists in La Liga. He had neither scored nor assisted in the UEFA Champions League.

The double ended a prolonged scoring drought. Vinicius had last scored for Brazil in September and for Real Madrid in August, meaning the goals marked his first return to the scoresheet for several weeks.

Brazil will conclude their camp against Singapore on Tuesday at the same stadium. Japan, meanwhile, were seeking another positive result against one of world football’s leading sides. Brazil beat them 2-1 in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup, while Japan won a notable friendly between the teams 3-2 in October 2025.

Vinicius’ performance provided a possible fresh start, although he will now need to reproduce that international form when he returns to Real Madrid.