In a surprising turn during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match in Houston, Japan took the lead against Brazil when Kaishu Sano scored in the 29th minute, putting the Asian team ahead 1-0.
Despite falling behind, Brazil maintained dominance for much of the first half and into the early stages of the second. The five-time world champions controlled possession with 66 percent compared to Japan’s 34 percent, completing 331 passes at an impressive 93 percent accuracy. In contrast, Japan managed 154 passes with an 89 percent completion rate.
Brazil also outshot Japan 8-4, registering three shots on target, while Japan had only one, which was Sano’s decisive goal. The in-game win probability favored Brazil, giving them a 23 percent chance to win in regular time and a combined 55 percent likelihood of advancing, including extra time. Japan held a 45 percent chance of securing victory.
Both teams earned two corners each. Brazil committed just one foul compared to Japan’s six, with discipline maintained as no red cards were issued. Brazil received one yellow card, while Japan had two bookings.
As the second half progressed, Brazil continued to push for an equalizer, but Japan’s defense remained resolute, protecting Sano’s first-half strike and keeping the match in their favor.
