Brazil - Japan: the history of confrontations

Football unites cultures. And while everything seems to oppose Brazil and Japan—samba on one side, discipline on the other—their relationship on the football pitch is very real. This is evidenced by these five official matches , where the Seleção has always had the last word over the Samurai Blue. Nevertheless, Japan has never stopped learning and progressing.

This connection between two worlds of football is also found in the world of style and textiles, as proposed by the Samurai Football site, which mixes Japanese influences and a passion for the round ball.

1. 🗓️ October 16, 2012 – Japan 0-4 Brazil (Friendly Match)

In Wrocław, Poland, Japan put on a real technical display. Neymar, then at the height of his carefree spirit , scored a hat-trick, including a penalty and a sumptuous strike. Kaká, back in the national team, added another goal to his tally and lit up the game. Despite a great attitude, the Japanese were overwhelmed by the Brazilian pace and fluidity.

2. 🗓️ June 15, 2013 – Brazil 3-0 Japan (Confederations Cup)

The Confederations Cup opened at the legendary Brasilia stadium. Neymar scored with a splendid volley in the third minute. Paulinho and Jo added to the score. Japan tried to settle the score but never managed to compete physically. This match confirmed the growing strength of a Brazil ready to host the World Cup.

3. 🗓️ October 14, 2014 – Japan 0-4 Brazil (Friendly Match)

In Singapore, Neymar achieved the unthinkable: a quadruple . Japan suffered greatly behind their defense and conceded goals after goals. Honda, Kagawa, and Okazaki tried to create danger, but the Seleção were too well-positioned. It was the heaviest defeat in Japan's history against Brazil.

4. 🗓️ November 10, 2017 – Japan 1-3 Brazil (Friendly Match)

Japan finally scores against Brazil! A long-range strike from Tomoaki Makino saves the day. Before that, Brazil had a first-half display: Neymar from the penalty spot, Marcelo with a rocket, and Gabriel Jesus after a pinpoint triangle. Tite's men dominated the match.

5. 🗓️ June 6, 2022 – Japan 0-1 Brazil (Friendly Match)

The most balanced match of the five. In front of a packed stadium in Tokyo , Japan put on a strong defensive display and only conceded in the 77th minute, to a Neymar penalty. The Japanese team's progress was clear, with intelligent pressing and more fluid possession. Brazil won, but without any real drama.