World Cup 2026: Rio Ferdinand blames Arsenal star for Japan’s goal against Brazil

Former England international, Rio Ferdinand has criticized Arsenal defender, Gabriel Magalhaes for his involvement in Japan’s goal during the round of 32 match against Brazil.

Rio Ferdinand, who himself was a World Cup defender, stated that the Arsenal player should have confronted the Japanese attacker sooner.

In the 29th minute of the game held in Houston, Kaishu Sano scored for Japan. Sano intercepted a poorly executed pass from Brazilian defender Danilo in midfield, advanced towards the penalty area, and struck a low right-footed shot past goalkeeper Alisson Becker.

Casemiro equalized for Brazil in the second half with a well-placed header from a cross delivered by Magalhaes.

While Ferdinand specifically criticized Gabriel for the goal, it was actually Casemiro who was closest to the Japanese midfielder as he surged towards the goal.

The former Real Madrid and Manchester United player appeared somewhat lethargic in his attempt to mark Sano, only managing to catch up with the Japanese player after he had already scored from distance.

“Japan takes the lead…Gabriel should’ve engaged earlier!” Ferdinand expressed on X.

Brazil ultimately secured victory in the match with a last-minute goal from another Arsenal player, Gabriel Martinelli.