Roy Keane changes mind on ‘fantastic’ Man Utd hero after World Cup win

By Mary Martin | June 30, 2026 | Updated: June 30, 2026 | 5 min read | 0 Comments

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Roy Keane changes mind on ‘fantastic’ Man Utd hero after World Cup win

Roy Keane changes mind on fantastic – In a dramatic shift of perspective, former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has revisited his earlier criticisms of Casemiro, the Brazilian midfielder, following a pivotal moment in the World Cup round of 32. The match between Brazil and Japan, which captivated global audiences, showcased the player’s dual nature as both a defensive liability and a goal-scoring asset, prompting Keane to acknowledge his value on the international stage.

Game Summary

Brazil, one of the tournament’s top contenders, faced a daunting challenge as Japan took an early lead. Kaishū Sano, the Japanese attacker, capitalized on Brazil’s midfield missteps to score the opening goal, sending the nation into a defensive quandary. The game, which unfolded in a tense atmosphere, highlighted the critical role Casemiro played in United’s midfield, now under scrutiny in a high-stakes international setting.

Keane’s Half-Time Assessment

During the halftime break, Keane expressed his concerns about Brazil’s midfield, emphasizing the lack of composure that had plagued the team. ‘A major concern throughout the competition, and it’s already costing them,’ he remarked, pointing to Casemiro’s early booking and his defensive errors as key factors in Brazil’s precarious position. The former United star noted that the midfielder’s decision-making was compromised by his yellow card, leaving Brazil vulnerable to Japan’s counterattacks.

‘They made a mistake earlier in the game with the midfielders getting out of position. Casemiro’s already on a yellow card, and this certainly affects his ability to close down the attacker. They give the ball away too easily, but there’s still a long way to go. This is the frustrating part—you see Casemiro, his first movement is to come out, not backtrack. He needs to be protecting the goal, slowing the player down. He’s experienced, but it’s no good having all that experience if he’s not using it,’ Keane explained.

Despite his initial skepticism, Keane’s analysis hinted at the potential for redemption. He praised Japan’s attacking midfielder for a ‘very, very good’ strike, but stressed that Casemiro’s defensive oversight almost allowed the goal to be capitalized on. ‘He had to stay goal-side, just keep backtracking and get numbers around him. Well deserved, a fantastic strike, but from Brazil’s midfield point of view, nowhere near good enough. I’d be surprised if he comes out for the second-half,’ he added.

Casemiro’s Redemption

To the surprise of many, Carlo Ancelotti opted to retain Casemiro after the break, a decision that proved crucial. The captain responded with a trademark header to level the score, reigniting Brazil’s hopes and shifting Keane’s opinion. ‘Obviously, it’s been a great response from half-time. He made one change to get more crosses in, and they’re getting bodies attacking it,’ the United legend noted, highlighting Casemiro’s ability to adapt and contribute.

‘We’ve been critical of Casemiro defensively, but we do know he’s a goal threat, always in the box. The delivery, not just that—Casemiro sees it all the way, but his timing, my goodness, his timing is fantastic. Then again, we shouldn’t be surprised because he’s scored so many brilliant goals for United. He’s an aerial threat, like a striker in there. His instinct in the box is like a top striker,’ Keane admitted, underscoring the midfielder’s versatility.

Casemiro’s performance in the World Cup has sparked renewed debate about his career trajectory. While he was often criticized at Old Trafford for defensive shortcomings, last season saw him emerge as a surprise goal threat, netting nine Premier League goals and earning admiration from fans and analysts alike. This latest display on the global stage has further solidified his reputation as a player capable of delivering under pressure.

Final Moments and Future Prospects

Though Casemiro’s heroics in the second half were undeniable, his contribution didn’t stop there. The 34-year-old limped off in injury time, just moments before Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli sealed the victory with a 95th-minute goal. This final strike underscored Brazil’s resilience, but it also highlighted the midfielder’s physical toll as he prepares for his next chapter. Casemiro is set to join Lionel Messi at David Beckham’s Inter Miami, a move that has generated significant interest in the sports world.

The game’s outcome has broader implications for Brazil’s progression in the tournament. With a hard-fought victory over Japan, they advance to the round of 16, where they will face either Norway or the Ivory Coast. This win has not only bolstered their chances of reaching the final but also reignited discussions about Casemiro’s role in the team. His ability to switch from defensive liability to goal-scoring asset has been a turning point, demonstrating his adaptability and importance to Brazil’s campaign.

Broader Context and Fan Reactions

Keane’s change of heart reflects a growing consensus among pundits that Casemiro’s value extends beyond his defensive errors. While his time at United was marked by mixed performances, his international career has shown flashes of brilliance. The midfielder’s ability to read the game and deliver decisive moments, as seen in the World Cup clash, has rekindled hopes that he can maintain his form at Inter Miami.

Additionally, the match between Brazil and Japan has been a case study in tactical adjustments. Ancelotti’s decision to keep Casemiro on after halftime, despite the criticism, proved instrumental in Brazil’s recovery. This moment has been celebrated by fans as a testament to the captain’s resilience and the team’s ability to turn things around under pressure.

As the tournament progresses, Casemiro’s performance will be closely watched. His journey from a defensive liability to a key contributor has been a remarkable arc, and his move to Inter Miami marks a new chapter in his career. Keane’s acknowledgment of his ‘fantastic’ abilities adds weight to the narrative that Casemiro’s strengths may outweigh his weaknesses, especially on the international stage.