For nearly 95 minutes, Brazil flirted with one of the biggest upsets of this World Cup. Long frustrated by a disciplined and perfectly organized Japan, the Seleção finally found the breakthrough in stoppage time through Gabriel Martinelli, to win 2-1.
This qualification is deserved in light of Brazil's dominance, but it also highlights the persistent difficulties of Carlo Ancelotti's side against compact defensive blocks.
A disciplined Japan that executed its game plan to perfection
Contrary to the image of a team that came only to defend, Japan initially played with a great deal of personality. Hajime Moriyasu's men pressed high in spells and knew how to profit from it.
It was a build-up error from Danilo that opened the door: Kaishu Sano perfectly anticipated the opposition pass before beating Alisson in the 29th minute. An opening goal as deserved as it was efficient.
Once ahead, the Samurai Blue gradually changed their approach. The lines tightened, the spaces disappeared, and Brazil found themselves faced with a genuine tactical puzzle. As the minutes ticked by, however, Japan lost their freshness, barely managing to get out of their own half.
Vinícius, the only true source of imbalance
If Brazil kept pressing, it was largely thanks to Vinícius Júnior. The Madrid winger constantly drove forward, made run after run, and forced the Japanese defence into numerical disadvantage.
It was he again who created the biggest chance of the match in the second half: his shot was parried by Zion Suzuki before striking the post. However, the Seleção again lacked creativity through the middle. Despite largely favorable possession, they long struggled to convert their territorial dominance into clear-cut chances.
Ancelotti's winning substitutions… and the bold call on Neymar
Trailing on the scoreboard, Carlo Ancelotti quickly altered his attacking setup by bringing on Endrick, then Gabriel Martinelli. These adjustments brought more depth and pace in the final thirty metres.
Another notable moment of the evening: Neymar, despite having recovered from his injury and already returned to action in the previous match, remained on the bench for the entire game. After the final whistle, Ancelotti explained that he had been planning to use him only in the event of extra time — a scenario ultimately made unnecessary by Martinelli's winning goal.
A logical victory, but lessons to be taken on board
Gabriel Martinelli's goal in the 95th minute rewards a Brazilian side that dominated the majority of the match without always finding solutions against the Japanese block. The qualification is secured, but the road was not without its bumps.
Japan leave the competition with regrets. Solid, disciplined and long on the verge of a giant-killing, the Samurai Blue eventually gave way under the constant pressure of a technically superior opponent.
For Brazil, the next challenge looks equally demanding. Before facing the winner of Ivory Coast – Norway, Carlo Ancelotti will need to find the keys to making his Seleção more effective against teams capable of sitting deep and defending with such discipline.
Comments
By posting, you agree to our privacy policy.