Brazilian anger over refereeing after friendly defeat: 'This is unacceptable'

Brazil lost a friendly to Japan in Singapore; Raphinha and manager Ancelotti both received red cards, with the Brazilian camp criticizing referee Jansen Foo's performance.

Brazil suffered a friendly defeat to Japan in Singapore on Saturday, with the match overshadowed by controversy over the officiating of referee Jansen Foo. Manager Carlo Ancelotti and captain Raphinha both received red cards during the game.

Ancelotti criticized Foo's handling of the match, telling ge.globo: "The result was influenced by the referee's behaviour. It was a high-level duel and the arbiter did not have the experience to lead such a match." The Italian coach explained he was sent off after Foo claimed he had lost control of the bench with too many players on the field.

Raphinha, substituted after 71 minutes, received his red card from the bench. "I want to apologize for that, but the refereeing today was unacceptable," the Barcelona forward said. "It's difficult to control yourself after so many mistakes from the referee." He cited Japan's opening goal stemming from an uncalled foul, a denied penalty, and an uncalled foul on João Gomes before Japan's third goal.

Despite the loss, both players found positives. Ancelotti noted the team played with intensity and rhythm, praising substitute players who showed their quality. Raphinha added: "There's still much to do, but since the World Cup we are growing."