Japan stunned five-time champions Brazil with a brilliant first-half display to take a 1-0 lead into the break in their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash in Houston on Monday.
Kaishu Sano scored the only goal of the half in the 29th minute after winning possession near the halfway line. The midfielder drove through the Brazil defence before firing a low right-footed shot into the bottom corner, leaving Alisson with no chance.
Brazil started brightly and enjoyed most of the possession, but Carlo Ancelotti’s side struggled to create clear chances against Japan’s disciplined defence. Vinicius Jr was largely kept quiet and his best effort, a long-range shot in the 34th minute, was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
Japan remained organised at the back and continued to threaten on the counter attack. Ayase Ueda also went close with a header before Sano’s opener.
Brazil’s problems were made worse by Casemiro’s early yellow card, which limited his aggression in midfield as Japan’s energetic players pressed high and forced several mistakes.
As the first half progressed, frustration grew among the Brazil fans, who booed their team’s slow passing and lack of attacking ideas. Japan, meanwhile, finished the half confidently, controlling possession and protecting their lead.
Four minutes of added time brought no change as Hajime Moriyasu’s side headed into the dressing room 1-0 ahead, leaving Brazil with plenty of work to do in the second half.
