Carlo Ancelotti explains why he scrapped plan to bring on Neymar against Japan as Brazil secure dramatic win
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti defended his decision to keep Neymar on the bench during a narrow 2-1 victory over Japan in the World Cup. Gabriel Martinelli scored the winning goal in stoppage time, validating the manager's tactical patience.
Why it matters
The decision highlights the depth of the Brazilian squad and the tactical management required in high-stakes knockout tournament football.
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has revealed exactly why Neymar remained an unused substitute during the Selecao's dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Japan. Despite the Santos superstar warming up in front of a captivated Houston crowd, he was sent back to the bench as the game reached its climax.
The article objectively reports on the manager's post-match comments and the game's outcome.
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