Japan got thoroughly scolded by Brazil! Nakamura also honestly admitted, "There was a clear difference in skill"... "To end it with this roster" — tears of regret

*This content was translated by AI.

Japan national team forward Keito Nakamura (26, RC Lens) expressed deep regret following Japan's defeat to Brazil.

Japan's "Sponichi Annex" reported on the 30th that "Nakamura shed tears after losing to Brazil."

Japan took an early lead through a goal by Kaishu Sano in the 2026 FIFA North, Central America and Caribbean Cup Round of 32 match against Brazil, held at the Houston Stadium in Houston, Texas, USA, on this day, but conceded consecutive goals to Casemiro and Gabriel Martinelli in the second half, ultimately losing 1-2.

As a result, Japan failed to advance past the Round of 16 for the fifth consecutive tournament, from the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup, through the 2010 South Africa, 2018 Russia, 2022 Qatar, and this tournament.

According to media reports, Nakamura said, "I personally could have shown better performance," and blamed himself. He added, "After scoring the first goal, I didn't attack recklessly. In hindsight, I should have aggressively pursued a second goal," expressing his regret.

Regarding Brazil, he acknowledged their strength, stating, "As expected, they were strong. It wasn't a match we couldn't win, but I felt the difference in skill."

Playing as a left wingback, Nakamura scored his World Cup debut goal in the group stage's first match against the Netherlands and provided an assist in the second match against Tunisia. However, his performance on this day was disappointing.

Nakamura said, "Just as we started well, it is truly sad and frustrating that I couldn't do anything in the match against Brazil. I could have taken on more roles."

Closing out his first World Cup stage, he repeatedly expressed regret, saying, "I didn't expect it to end so futilely. It is even more frustrating and sad because I probably won't get to play again with this roster."

On this day, Japan aimed for an upset by scoring the first goal against the powerhouse Brazil. From the early stages of the match, Japan operated primarily with a tight defense, and in the 30th minute of the first half, they scored the opening goal through a counterattack by Kaishu Sano, who intercepted a pass, followed by a surprise long-range shot.

However, they could not overcome Brazil's fierce counterattack in the second half. Brazil steadily pressed the goal and equalized in the 11th minute of the second half with a header from Casemiro. Then, in the 5th minute of stoppage time in the second half, Martinelli scored a dramatic winning goal. Ultimately, Brazil secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory, ending Japan's challenge.

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*This content was translated by AI.