Gabriel Martinelli scored a stoppage-time winner as Brazil came from behind to beat Japan 2-1 in Houston and book their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA 2026 World Cup.
Japan threatened a major upset when Kaishu Sano fired them ahead after 29 minutes with a superb strike, leaving Carlo Ancelotti’s side stunned and trailing at the break.
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Brazil struggled to create clear chances in the first half but emerged with far greater urgency after the restart. Casemiro, who endured a difficult opening period, redeemed himself by powering home Gabriel’s cross with a header in the 56th minute.
The equaliser sparked Brazil into life, and they nearly went ahead moments later through Vinicius Jr.
The forward collected the ball inside the Japan half, nutmegged one defender, beat another and drove into the box before his shot was brilliantly tipped onto the post by goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
Japan regrouped and defended resolutely as the match appeared destined for extra time. However, a costly mistake from Ao Tanaka near his own penalty area proved decisive.
Martinelli, introduced in the 66th minute, capitalised in stoppage time after being released by Bruno Guimaraes and finished calmly to complete Brazil’s comeback.
It was a cruel ending for Japan, who were chasing the nation’s first World Cup knockout victory, but Brazil’s pressure finally told after a lethargic first-half display.
The goal was also Brazil’s latest winning strike in normal time at a World Cup.
Brazil advance to the Round of 16, where they will face either Ivory Coast or Norway.
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