This marked the first time Brazil overcame a deficit in a World Cup knockout match since their 2-1 win over England in the quarter-finals in 2002, with Gabriel Martinelli netting a dramatic goal in the 95th minute against a resilient Japan team.
Ancelotti noted that confidence in scoring remained high, but a shift in tactics at halftime, focusing on more crosses into the box, proved successful as Casemiro levelled the score and Brazil took command of the match.
“This was the most complete performance we’ve had (at the World Cup),” Ancelotti remarked. “The first half posed challenges as Japan defended well, staying tight and organized against us.
In the second half, we found our rhythm, created space, and effectively delivered crosses. This was definitely an evolution in our approach.
At halftime, I encouraged the players to remain patient, assuring them that we would score eventually. However, we needed to maintain our structure to avoid compromising the game further.
“Japan is a strong, well-organized squad that generates threats and keeps a close defensive line. They are quite physical.”
Ancelotti commended Martinelli’s impact from the bench, stating he is an ideal substitute to make a difference.
“Martinelli brings tremendous intensity to the game; he always performs at his best,” he noted.
Although Ancelotti did not bring on Neymar, he mentioned considering the experienced forward’s inclusion.
“We were contemplating (extra time). I informed Neymar that if the game was tied at a certain moment, I would bring him in. Yet, it turned out we didn’t need him.”
Brazil’s next challenge will be against the winner of Tuesday’s match between Ivory Coast and Norway, which they are set to play in New Jersey on Sunday.
“We can never settle for where we are,” Ancelotti emphasized. “We’re performing well, but there’s room for improvement. Our goal is to play at the highest level possible.
While we enjoyed today’s match, our focus must now shift to the next match. We hold respect for all teams and players.”
