Brazil Player Ratings: Ancelotti masterminds comeback win vs Japan
Carlo Ancelotti proved his tactical genius as Brazil came from behind to beat Japan 2-1, with Casemiro and substitute Gabriel Martinelli securing their place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: YantsImages
Brazil advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals after a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory against Japan. Despite falling behind to an early goal from Sano, the Selecao turned the match around thanks to the tactical leadership of Carlo Ancelotti.
Casemiro and Gabriel Martinelli were the heroes of the night. Ancelotti kept faith in Casemiro despite a booking and a difficult first half, and the veteran rewarded his manager with the equalising goal. The introduction of Gabriel Martinelli proved to be the decisive move, as the Arsenal forward scored the winner in the dying seconds.
Bruno Guimaraes was the standout performer, earning an 8/10 for his relentless drive and his role in the winning goal. Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Douglas Santos all impressed with 7/10 ratings for their composed play. In contrast, Alisson Becker (5/10) and Danilo (4/10) struggled at times, with the latter's error leading to Japan's opening goal.
Make no mistake about it, Brazil were in big trouble at the break but Don Carlo once again showed why he's renowned as the coolest customer in football. Sticking with Casemiro was crucial but so, too, was bringing Martinelli off the bench. Carlo Ancelotti
Lucas Paqueta was substituted at half-time due to injury, forcing a tactical reshuffle. Endrick replaced him and provided some promising link-up play in the second half.