Paulo Henrique and Gabriel Martinelli put Carlo Ancelotti’s side ahead

Brazil took control of their friendly match in Japan this evening with two quick goals in the first half.

The visitors had their luck before taking the lead through Paulo Henrique in the 26th minute and Gabriel Martinelli doubled the lead five minutes later.

The early stages were a tactical battle with both teams struggling to find any fluency – perhaps not surprising in Brazil’s case with the coach. Carlo Ancelotti made eight changes to the side that won 5-0 in South Korea on Friday.

Vinicius Junior was playing as a dummy striker and struggled to make an impression with Brazil lacking much of an attacking threat.

Ueda rejects the opportunity to hurt Brazil

In fact, Japan should have been ahead after 20 minutes. Great play from Ritsu Doan created a chance, Takumi Minamino left it for Ayase Ueda but he shot wide.

It was a costly miss as Brazil scored from the ensuing opener.

Henrique started the attack with a pass to Bruno Guimaraes, who passed the ball back to the Fluminense striker, after completing an exchange with Martinelli.

It was 2-0 shortly afterwards, as Lucas Paqueta lifted the ball over the Japan defense and Martinelli fired past goalkeeper Zion Suzuki with his left foot.

Duan had Japan’s first shot on target near the end of the first half, but it did not bother Brazil goalkeeper Hugo Sousa.