Brazil head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has explained why veteran forward Neymar did not feature in the Selecao’s dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Japan, revealing he had reserved the star attacker for a potential extra-time appearance.
Neymar recently ended a three-year absence from international football when he came on as a second-half substitute in Brazil’s group-stage win over Haiti.
Ahead of the Round of 32 clash against Japan, expectations were high that he could see action again, but the 34-year-old remained on the bench throughout the contest.
Brazil ultimately did not require his services as they recovered from a first-half setback to secure qualification for the Round of 16.
Japan looked set to force extra time after taking the lead before halftime, but Casemiro restored parity in the second half and Gabriel Martinelli struck a dramatic winner in the 95th minute.
“We were thinking about (extra time),” Ancelotti said after the match. “I told Neymar that if it was a draw at a certain point, I would put him on the pitch. As it turned out we did not need him.”
The Italian manager credited Brazil’s second-half tactical adjustments for turning the match around after his side struggled to break down Japan’s compact defensive setup in the opening period.
“This was the most complete game we have played at the World Cup,” Ancelotti said. “We had trouble in the first half as Japan were defending well. They were close and tight to us.”
According to Ancelotti, Brazil found greater success after the interval by making better use of the flanks, stretching Japan’s defensive line and creating more opportunities from crosses into the box.
“In the second half, we overcame it, we got some space and put in crosses. This was an evolution in tactics for sure,” he said.
The manager also disclosed the message he delivered to his players during the halftime break, encouraging them to remain calm and disciplined despite trailing.
“At halftime I said to the players to be patient because sooner or later we would score a goal. But we had to keep our shape to ensure we did not compromise the game further.”
Ancelotti reserved special praise for Martinelli, whose late intervention sealed Brazil’s place in the next round.
“Martinelli has a lot of intensity as a player. He is always on his top game,” the Italian said.
Brazil will now prepare for a Round of 16 showdown against either Ivory Coast or Norway in New Jersey on Sunday as the five-time champions continue their pursuit of a sixth FIFA World Cup crown.
The victory over Japan highlighted both their resilience and tactical adaptability, qualities Ancelotti will hope can carry them deeper into the tournament.
