Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has brilliantly explained why he didn't celebrate Gabriel Martinelli's last-gasp winner against Japan at the 2026 World Cup.
Brazil were impressed in the group stage as they topped Group C. Their reward for going unbeaten in their three group matches was a tricky last 32 tie with Japan.
Japan, who had been considered one of the competition's 'dark horses', took the lead in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano's strike nestled into the bottom corner.
Brazil were much better in the second half, and they drew level 11 minutes after half-time when Casemiro headed home.
Ancelotti, considered one of the greatest managers in football history, subbed on Gabriel Martinelli midway through the second half with the hope he could win the match for his side. The Arsenal star did just that in the sixth minute of stoppage-time as his effort found the back of the net via the post.
Carlo Ancelotti Explains Why He Didn't Celebrate Brazil's Progression
Carlo AncelottiREUTERS/Annegret Hilse
Brazil's players and staff went crazy as they celebrated Martinelli's 96th-minute winner. Ancelotti, meanwhile, did not celebrate the goal.
With a glum expression on his face, Ancelotti turned his back on the celebrations before talking through tactics with a few of his staff members.
Ancelotti has now explained the reason for his actions, saying that it was down to respect. He said, per The Tribune:
"People asked me why I didn't celebrate, but football is also about respect. Yes, we were happy to win, but I looked across and saw a Japanese team that had given absolutely everything. They fought with incredible courage, and I know exactly how painful a defeat like that can be.
"Of course I celebrated inside because my responsibility is to Brazil and qualifying was our objective. But I've been in football for many years, and I've experienced both victory and heartbreak. Sometimes the best way to respect your opponent is to remain humble in your biggest moments.
"Japan made us suffer for ninety-five minutes. They deserved our respect, not exaggerated celebrations. Brazil are through, but we know we must improve. Tonight we celebrate the qualification, but tomorrow we go back to work because the World Cup only gets more difficult from here."
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Ancelotti Praises Brazil's Performance
Carlo AncelottiREUTERS/Annegret Hilse
Ancelotti also expressed his pleasure at Brazil's display. He said, per Football365:
“This was the most complete game we have played (at the World Cup). We had trouble in the first half as Japan were defending well, they were close and tight to us.
“In the second half, we overcame it, we got some space and put in crosses. This was an evolution (in tactics) for sure.
“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.
“Japan is a very good team, very organised, they create dangerous opportunities and get close (defensively). They are physical.”
Brazil will face either Norway or Ivory Coast in the last 16 of the competition. The match will take place at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, July 5.