Japan's Tanaka Ao collapses in tears after costly error; Neymar offers comfort

Japan midfielder Tanaka Ao, 28, of Leeds United broke down in tears and collapsed on the pitch after blaming himself for a costly error in his side's 1-2 defeat to Brazil.

Japan, managed by Moriyasu Hajime, fell 1-2 to Brazil on Tuesday in the round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA North, Central America and Caribbean World Cup at Houston Stadium in the United States.

The match was decided in stoppage time. Tanaka, who came on as a substitute in the 78th minute, lost the ball near the halfway line in the 94th minute — just moments before the final whistle — and Brazil made no mistake. The turnover immediately sparked a counterattack, with Gabriel Martinelli converting the decisive goal. Foreign media noted that "the fatal error in stoppage time made the defeat all the more heartbreaking for the team."

As Japan's elimination was confirmed in an instant, Tanaka broke down and collapsed on the pitch. Broadcast cameras captured him lying on his back on the turf, covering his face as he wept. Japanese teammates rushed over to console him and help him to his feet, while Brazil players including Matheus Cunha and Neymar also approached and put their arms around his shoulders.

Sports Hochi reported that Tanaka was too shocked to say a word after the final whistle. "He wept openly after the loss to Brazil, without any concern for who was watching," the outlet said. "Even in the mixed zone after the match, the shock was so great that he could not speak. His eyes were completely red."

Coach Moriyasu also bowed his head in regret. "I'm sorry we couldn't bring you a victory," he said. "I lacked strength as a manager, and I want to apologize to everyone." Visibly fighting back tears several times as he spoke, Moriyasu added: "The players and the team gave absolutely everything. I hope you feel proud of Japan and give the players the credit they deserve."