Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka was instrumental as Japan secured a dramatic 3-2 friendly victory over Brazil in Singapore on Saturday. The Samurai Blue held off a Brazilian side captained by former Leeds star Raphinha to claim a memorable win.
Tanaka started and played 86 minutes in a high-quality midfield battle, producing a performance that combined defensive grit with precise distribution. He completed 50 of his 52 attempted passes, a 96 per cent success rate that was the best of any Japan player on the night.
Defensive contribution sparks controversy
His most notable intervention came with Japan leading 2-1, when he dispossessed Raphinha inside the penalty area with a perfectly timed tackle. The challenge, which saw the Brazilian forward go to ground, was deemed legal by the officials but provoked a furious reaction from Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti on the touchline.
Beyond that moment, Tanaka was a consistent defensive presence. He made six tackles, two more than any other player on the pitch, and contributed three interceptions and three recoveries. His 11 attempted duels were also a team-high for Japan.
A complete midfield display
In possession, the 28-year-old demonstrated his ability to progress the play, recording 14 carries for a combined distance of nearly 140 metres. He registered 70 touches in total before being substituted late on.
Japan's victory was sealed by a 91st-minute winner from Tatsuhiro Sakamoto, avenging a last-gasp defeat to Brazil at the World Cup last summer. Tanaka is expected to feature again for Japan in their friendly against Paraguay on Tuesday before returning to Leeds. Daniel Farke will hope his midfielder returns fit for the club's upcoming fixtures.
