Neymar nets penalty as Brazil beats Japan 1-0 in friendly

Tokyo, June 6 (BNA): Brazil defeated Japan 1-0 in a friendly match thanks to a penalty kick by Neymar in the 77th minute after stumbling in the penalty area on a rainy night at the new Tokyo National Stadium.

It was Neymar’s 74th goal with the national team, falling short of the record held by Pele, according to the Associated Press.

He also scored two penalties last week in the 5-1 win over South Korea as Brazil tested themselves on the Asian tour against two World Cup qualifiers.

Japan is now without a win against Brazil in 13 matches (11 losses and 2 draws). Brazil also continued its unbeaten streak to 13 matches. His most recent loss came a little less than a year ago, against Argentina in the Copa America final.

Brazil coach Tite was happy with the narrow victory. “We expected the match to be more difficult, but we played better against South Korea,” Tite said. We made some mistakes that gave them confidence. This is a good test against a team that is ready for the World Cup.”

An early favorite alongside the defending champions, Brazil joined alongside Cameroon, Switzerland and Serbia in the World Cup. Japan, in the toughest group, has to face Germany and Spain. Costa Rica or New Zealand will fill in the other place.

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