Japan stun Brazil despite Vinicius Junior’s superb double in friendly

Japan secured a 3-2 victory over Brazil in an international friendly at the National Stadium in Japan, despite two outstanding long-range goals from Vinicius Junior.

Takefusa Kubo gave the hosts the lead in the 15th minute before Kito Nakamura doubled Japan’s advantage four minutes later.

Brazil responded through Vinicius, who reduced the deficit in the 33rd minute with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area.

The Real Madrid forward levelled the match in the 75th minute, producing another excellent finish from distance.

Japan restored their lead in the 91st minute when Tatsuhiro Sakamoto scored the winning goal.

Brazil’s players strongly protested after the decisive goal, claiming there had been a foul in midfield during the build-up.

The protests continued from the Brazil bench and resulted in the dismissals of manager Carlo Ancelotti and Raphinha.

The defeat leaves Brazil with one more match during the international break. They will face Indonesia on Tuesday, 17 November.