City teammates Kerolin, Ayaka Yamashita, and Aoba Fujino found themselves on opposing sides as Brazil edged Japan 2-1 in a tightly contested international friendly on Monday evening.
The match, played at the Morumbi Stadium in São Paulo, saw both nations field strong lineups in the second of their two-match series, with Brazil securing back-to-back wins after last week’s 3-1 victory.
Fujino Shines Early, Japan Strike First
Japan opened the scoring with a moment of brilliance from winger Aoba Fujino.
The Tokyo Verdy starlet carved open Brazil’s defense with a deft outside-foot cross from the left flank.
Her delivery was met with precision by Brighton forward Kiko Seike, who blasted the ball past Brazilian goalkeeper Luciana to give the visitors a deserved 1-0 lead.
Own Goal Levels the Score
Despite a solid first half, Japan’s fortunes turned shortly after the break. In the 58th minute, a curling corner from Brazil caused chaos in the box.
Yamashita rushed out to punch clear, but it was her teammate Rion Ishikawa who inadvertently headed the ball into her own net, drawing Brazil level.
The equaliser seemed to swing the momentum firmly in the hosts’ favor as they ramped up pressure in the final third.