Carlo Ancelotti's old habit inspires dramatic comeback from
Brazil made an impressive comeback against Japan during the World Cup, thanks in part to strategic changes by coach Carlo Ancelotti. These decisions led to a 2-1 win in Houston, with hopes of a sixth star on Brazil's shirts remaining alive.
Carlo Ancelotti's old habit inspires dramatic comeback from
Brazil once again confirmed coach Carlo Ancelotti's confidence with an impressive comeback against Japan in the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup. The Italian tactician, who previously won the Champions League three times with Real Madrid, showed his experience by making changes at crucial moments in the match that made the difference.In Houston, where Japan led in the first half, Ancelotti made two important substitutions at half-time. He brought on Endrick for Lucas Paquetá, which gave Brazil's attack new impetus. He also replaced Matheus Cunha with Gabriel Martinelli. These adjustments made Brazil much more threatening in the second half.
Japan, which had the upper hand before half-time, made the mistake of moving to a more defensive playing style. It seemed as if they were backing away from a sense of inferiority, giving Brazil the opportunity to pile on the pressure. This resulted in a spectacular comeback, with Bruno Guimarães scoring the first goal and Martinelli scoring the winning goal in extra time.
Since their elimination by Argentina in 1990, Brazil have never lost to a non-European team in the knockout stages of the World Cup. This fact makes the victory all the sweeter for the Selecao, who will now be hoping for their sixth world title. Ancelotti, with his calm and collected appearance, seems to be the perfect man in the right place.
The coach, who looked like a dandy in a three-piece suit, has a unique ability to inspire young players and bring out the best in them. Casemiro, called up again after a long absence, played a crucial role by scoring the equalizing goal, while Guimarães provided the assist for the win.
The victory against Japan is an important milestone in Brazil's quest for the world title. The Selecao have often shown in the past that they are capable of performing at the right time, and with Ancelotti at the helm, the path to success appears to be open again. The team will now move forward in the tournament with confidence, hoping for more glorious moments in the coming matches.
Related Articles
- Belgium 'astonished' by FIFA's decision to wipe Folarin Balogun's
- Shooting in World Cup Fan Zone Leaves One Dead, One Injured
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does this matter now?
This Brazil update affects fans, teams, and the wider season picture — read above for the full breakdown.
What happens next?
Stay tuned for official updates and follow our coverage for the latest developments.
Related articles
Leagues
Pablo Barrios bijna terug bij Atlético na blessure
Pablo Barrios is na zijn blessure bijna klaar voor een terugkeer bij Atlético Madrid. Na individueel te hebben getraind, mogelijk onder begeleiding van fysio Iván Cruz, kan hij zich \binnenkort weer bij de selectie voegen. Zijn rentree wordt verwacht in de uitwedstrijd tegen Alavés, mits hij volledig fit blijft.
Leagues
Voorzitter Manchester City overtuigd van onschuld na
Manchester City is door de Premier League schuldig bevonden aan een groot aantal financiële overtredingen. Voorzitter Khaldoon Al Mubarak reageert vol vertrouwen op de aanklacht en verwacht de onschuld van zijn club te kunnen aantonen. De zaak veroorzaakt veel discussie in de Engelse voetbalwereld, en de gevolgen kunnen verstrekkend zijn voor City en de competitie.
Leagues
Dumfries en Bellingham starten in de basis bij Real Madrid
Real Madrid staat voor een cruciaal duel in La Liga tegen stadsgenoot Atlético Madrid. Trainer Jose Mourinho stuurt een sterk elftal het veld in, waarbij Dumfries en Bellingham vanaf het eerste fluitsignaal een basisplaats hebben. De Madrilenen willen hun recente overwinning op Elche een goed vervolg geven met winst in het altijd beladen treffen. Het duel is belangrijk voor het behoud van hun positie in de titelstrijd.
Leagues
Assistent Arteta bevestigt reëel Arsenal-interesse
Arteta-assistent Miguel Molina bevestigt dat Arsenal afgelopen zomer serieus naar Vinicius Junior keek. De Braziliaan verlengde uiteindelijk bij Real Madrid. Molina schetst daarnaast de intensieve werkwijze van Mikel Arteta.