Why Was Raphinha Sent Off Against Japan? His Apology and Referee Criticism Explained
Raphinha has apologized for his red card during Brazil's 3-2 defeat to Japan, while strongly criticizing Singaporean referee Jansen Foo. The forward, who had already been substituted in the second half, was sent off for protesting a decision in stoppage time, alongside Brazil head coach Ancelotti.
Brazil's defeat to Japan ended with an unusual incident as both Raphinha and Carlo Ancelotti were sent off for protesting a refereeing decision.
The Barcelona forward had been replaced by Endrick in the 71st minute but received his red card during stoppage time.
Raphinha Apologizes but Criticizes the Referee
Speaking to Grupo Globo on Saturday, Raphinha acknowledged his behavior and apologized for being sent off.
"I want to take this opportunity to apologize for my behavior, for the sending-off, but sometimes I find it difficult to control myself after so many mistakes by the referee during the match," he said.
The Brazilian forward explained that he had tried to speak with the referee several times but felt his concerns were not being heard.
"I tried to talk to him several times, and at no point did I feel he was willing to listen to me," Raphinha added.
He maintained that Foo had made several mistakes throughout the match.
The Other Decisions Raphinha Disputed
The incident involving Sakamoto's goal was not Raphinha's only complaint.
The forward also questioned a possible handball in the buildup to Japan's opening goal.
"It's unacceptable. In my opinion, their first goal came from a foul where the player touched the ball with his hand," he said.
Raphinha also believed Brazil should have been awarded a penalty following a push inside the box.
Those were the incidents he highlighted after the match, reflecting his assessment of the refereeing decisions rather than confirmed officiating errors.
Raphinha Defends Brazil's Performance Despite Defeat
Despite the result, Raphinha felt Brazil had performed well against Japan.
He acknowledged that the team still had areas to improve but praised its overall display, particularly after halftime.
"We're a team that's growing, getting back to our best after the World Cup. In my opinion, we played a great match, much better in the second half than in the first," he explained.
However, he continued to argue that the refereeing decisions had affected the game.
Raphinha finished the match without any apparent physical problems, following a week of discussion surrounding his injury history with Brazil and talks with Barcelona about managing his playing time.
Three Key Details Behind Raphinha's Red Card
- The protest that led to his dismissal: Raphinha disputed Sakamoto's stoppage-time goal, claiming Minamino had fouled João Gomes in the buildup.
- His apology: the forward acknowledged his behavior and apologized for the red card while maintaining his criticism of Jansen Foo.
- Other disputed decisions: he also raised concerns about a possible handball before Japan's opening goal and a penalty appeal involving a push inside the area.
