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Japan completed a stunning second-half turnaround to secure a first-ever victory over Brazil in Wednesday’s friendly in Tokyo.
Looking to build on Friday’s 5-0 friendly win over South Korea, Carlo Ancelotti’s team took the lead on 26 minutes when Paulo Henrique fired a powerful strike home after being played through by Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimarães.
Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli doubled their lead six minutes later, latching onto Lucas Paquetá‘s pass before hitting a low finish.
But Japan staged a brilliant turnaround after the break and were level soon after the hour mark thanks to goals from Takumi Minamino and Keito Nakamura.
Ayase Ueda then scored with a thumping header in the 71st minute to clinch a 3-2 triumph for the hosts, sparking joyous scenes at Ajinomoto Stadium.
