Brazil secured their place in the next round of the World Cup with a late 2-1 victory over Japan, but their performance drew criticism and highlighted areas for concern.
Gabriel Martinelli scored the decisive goal in the final moments of the match, set up by Bruno Guimaraes, to break the deadlock and send Brazil into the last 16. The goal averted a potential embarrassment for the Selecao and sent their supporters into raptures.
Despite the victory, the first half performance left much to be desired. Brazil trailed at the interval, a display described as dull, inhibited, and listless. Coach Carlo Ancelotti was seen as needing to shake his players out of their torpor. Vinicius Jr showed intermittent flashes of brilliance, while Neymar Jr was less impactful. Japan's goalkeeper Zion Suzuki was the standout performer for much of the game.
Japan's tactical approach involved allowing Brazil possession and forcing them to play through a compact midfield and defense, looking to pounce on opportunities. This strategy proved effective for the first 45 minutes, with Japan capitalizing on a defensive error.
Casemiro was noted for a difficult first half. He was booked for a tackle and later lost possession near the end of the half, which led to Japan's opening goal. However, he redeemed himself in the second half by scoring the equalizer with a header from a Gabriel Magalhaes cross, utilizing his height advantage.
Japan's goal, just before the half-hour mark, showcased the precision and spatial awareness that Brazil lacked in the opening period. A loose pass from Danilo was intercepted, and Kaishu Sano advanced before striking a hard, low shot past the Brazilian goalkeeper. Japan continued to press for a second goal before halftime, while Brazil's offensive efforts, including speculative shots from Vinicius Jr and Matheus Cunha, did not trouble Suzuki.
Ancelotti's side emerged with renewed urgency in the second half, notably utilizing the wider areas more effectively. Vinicius Jr was positioned further out, causing problems for the Japanese defense. Brazil began to flood Japan's box, and Suzuki made a series of impressive saves. However, Casemiro eventually found the net with his headed equalizer.
Vinicius Jr had a moment of brilliance that struck the post, but he was frequently crowded out by multiple Japanese defenders. The team's overall reliance on him to provide a spark was evident, and his efforts to outpace defenders were often stifled.
As the match wore on, Japan appeared to retreat further into a defensive posture, possibly due to fatigue and a recognition of Brazil's increasing pressure. This created space that Brazil ultimately exploited.
Martinelli's intuitive run and decisive finish from Guimaraes' pass sealed the win. The victory means Brazil advances, but the team faces soul-searching as they prepare for their next opponent. The performance has raised questions about their consistency and ability to dominate, despite the ultimate outcome.