Raphinha Defends Himself After Receiving Red Card

Raphinha didn’t stay silent after drawing attention for receiving a red card during Brazil’s defeat against Japan. The Barcelona star offered a defense.

Brazil suffered a 2-3 defeat when facing Japan in a friendly match at the National Stadium in Singapore on Saturday (14/11). The match was intense and exciting.

Japan managed to take a two-goal lead first through actions by Takefusa Kubo (15′) and Keito Nakamura (19′). However, Vinicius Junior became the inspiration for Brazil’s comeback by scoring two goals.

Japan dramatically emerged victorious after Tatsuhiro Sakamoto scored past the Brazilian goal during injury time. However, that goal was protested by the opposing camp.

Raphinha, who had already been substituted off since the 71st minute, was one of the loudest in protesting the referee. As a result, he along with Carlo Ancelotti received direct red cards from the Singaporean referee, Jansen Foo.

Raphinha admitted that the protest action he took was excessive. However, he also questioned the referee’s performance during the match.

“I want to apologize for that behavior and for getting a red card, sometimes it’s hard to control oneself. In my opinion, the referee made several mistakes,” Raphinha said, as reported by Globo Esporte.

“I believe he made many mistakes in the match earlier. This is unacceptable.”

Raphinha specifically highlighted a number of incidents, such as Japan’s first goal which appeared to involve a handball. He also felt he was fouled in the penalty box, but the referee did not award a penalty.

Raphinha’s emotions finally boiled over when the referee validated Japan’s third goal. He felt there was a foul beforehand, but the referee and VAR seemed to ignore it.

“We played a good match, much better in the second half than the first half. However, it’s difficult when you play against the referee, so it’s complicated,” Raphinha concluded.