The Japanese team was one minute away from sign one of the greatest feats of the 2026 World Cup by taking the match against Brazil to extra time, but a last-gasp goal ended the Japanese dream. Brazil came back 2-1 at the NRG Stadium in Houston and eliminated a Japanese team that competed on equal terms against a world power.
The team led by Hajime Moriyasu surprised from the first half. Orderly, disciplined and brave, Japan took the lead in the 29th minute with a goal from Kaishu Sano, who took advantage of an error in the start of the “Canarinha”.
For much of the match, Japan maintained the advantage and bothered a Brazil that could not find space. However, the South Americans’ hierarchy ended up prevailing in the second half. Casemiro tied the score in the 56th minute with a header, and when everything pointed to extra time, Gabriel Martinelli appeared in the 96th minute to seal the comeback.
After the match, Moriyasu did not hide the emotional blow, although he highlighted the dedication of his players. “We were so close to achieving something truly special and to lose in the final moments is heartbreaking. But more than anything, I am proud of each of the players. They gave everything for Japan.”
The Japanese coach underlined his team’s competitive spirit against one of the greatest powers in world football. “They showed courage, discipline and incredible character against one of the greatest footballing nations in history.”
The locker room, as revealed by the coach, experienced moments of deep sadness after the final whistle. “The locker room is full of emotion. There are tears because these players cared deeply. They dreamed of taking our country even further, and losing that dream in the final moments is hard to accept.”
Despite the result, Moriyasu sent a message of pride and hope to his players and fans. “I told them to keep their heads up. One result does not define this team. What they achieved Throughout this World Cup he has inspired millions of people and I hope they remember him when the pain begins to fade.”
The coach also had words for the Japanese fans, who accompanied the team throughout the tournament. “We know how much you believed in us and how much this team meant to you throughout this tournament. We wanted to reward that faith with another historic night, but football can be cruel.”
Japan says goodbye to the 2026 World Cup after leaving an image of growth, competitiveness and national pride, after having been one minute away from eliminating Brazil. Moriyasu closed with a message about the future: “This is not the end of Japanese football. We will learn, we will grow and we will come back stronger.”