Ancelotti and Raphinha sent off as Japan beat Brazil
Brazil's national football team, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, suffered a 3-2 defeat against Japan in a friendly match in Singapore. Both Ancelotti and captain Raphinha were sent off following late-game protests regarding a controversial stoppage-time goal.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding officiating standards in high-level international football and the disciplinary challenges faced by high-profile managers.
Carlo Ancelotti (left) became Brazil coach in 2025 and this year signed a contract extension to the 2030 World Cup [Getty Images]
Manager Carlo Ancelotti and captain Raphinha were sent off as Brazil were beaten by a stoppage-time winner in a friendly against Japan in Singapore.
Ancelotti and Raphinha were dismissed on the touchline in the aftermath of Coventry City winger Tatsuhiro Sakamoto bundling home in the 91st minute.
Brazil appealed for a foul in the build-up when Aston Villa midfielder Joao Gomes was dispossessed.
There were further protests after the final whistle, with security personnel stepping in to separate various Brazil players from the officials, including Singaporean referee Jansen Foo.
"The referee gave me a red card because he said I wasn't able to control the bench, and that all the players were on the field," Ancelotti said.
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2 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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