ROME (ITALPRESS) – Defeat and controversy for Brazil in a friendly match played in Singapore. The *Seleção* were beaten 3-2 by Japan at the National Stadium, in a game marked by strong protests against the officiating of Singaporean referee Jansen Foo Chuan Hui.
Tensions boiled over following Japan’s third goal, which came after a challenge on João Gomes—left unpunished by the referee—at the start of the play. The Brazilian delegation deemed the incident a foul, and the ensuing protests led to the sending-off of both Carlo Ancelotti and forward Raphinha.
After the match, the Italian coach made no secret of his frustration, openly criticizing the referee’s performance: “The result was clearly influenced by the referee’s approach—he simply wasn’t blowing his whistle. But it’s not entirely his fault; this was a high-level match, and I don’t believe he had the necessary experience to officiate a game of this caliber,” Ancelotti stated.
Nevertheless, the coach distinguished the referee’s performance from his own team’s display, noting some positive aspects despite the unfavorable result: “The first half wasn’t good, as we conceded two goals. Our defensive line didn’t move well, even though we tried to apply high pressure,” he explained.
-Photo IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).
