29.06.2026 22:30
Japan, which lost to Belgium 3-2 in the round of 16 of the 2018 FIFA World Cup due to a goal conceded at 90+5, had also been eliminated in the round of 16 of the 2022 FIFA World Cup after a penalty shootout loss to Croatia. Seeking to break their streak of bad luck this time, the Japanese faced Brazil in the round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Samurai once again lost 2-1 after conceding a goal at 90+6, thus bidding farewell to the tournament.
Japan National Team's last-minute misfortune in major tournaments continued to haunt them at the 2026 World Cup.
JAPAN'S FATE REMAINS UNCHANGED
The Samurai, who suffered tragic farewells in past tournaments, faced the world giant Brazil in the round of 32. In a thrilling match that ended 1-1, Japan experienced a sense of déjà vu during extra time. Brazil scored a goal in the 90+6th minute to make it 2-1 and eliminate Japan from the tournament.
MEMORIES OF 2018 AND 2022
Having lost 3-2 to Belgium in 2018 with a goal in the 90+5th minute and being eliminated by Croatia on penalties in 2022, Japan once again failed to change their fate. Devastated by another last-second goal, Japan bid an early farewell to the podium, while Brazil secured their spot in the next round.