It was one of those nights that Tokyo will never forget. Under the bright lights of the Ajinomoto Stadium, Japan stunned the football world, coming from two goals down to beat Brazil 3-2 in a friendly that felt anything but friendly. It wasn't just a win it was history in motion. Japan, being fearless, was actually expected to have a go at Brazil, as reported by Softfootball in the match preview , but they went on about it in an unbelievable manner.
From the start, Brazil looked like, well, Brazil. Calm on the ball, full of tricks, and sharp in front of goal. Paulo Henrique opened the scoring in the 26th minute with an outside-the-boot finish that had class written all over it. Before Japan could regroup, Gabriel Martinelli smashed home a half-volley after a sweet chip from Lucas Paqueta - 2-0. The Seleco were dancing again, fresh off that 5-0 demolition of South Korea as reported by Softfootball .
But if you thought it was over, you don't know this Japan side. Something changed after the break. They came out with fire, with belief, with that crowd behind them. Takumi Minamino started the comeback in the 52nd minute, pouncing on a loose ball after a shaky clearance from Fabricio Bruno. Suddenly, there was noise again. And energy. Ten minutes later, Keito Nakamura's strike, helped by a nasty deflection, made it 2-2.