Brazil booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after Gabriel Martinelli struck a dramatic stoppage-time winner to seal a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory over Japan in their Round of 32 clash in Houston.
The South American giants were stunned early when Japan took the lead through Koki Sano in the 29th minute after an encouraging start from the Asian side. Brazil struggled to find their rhythm in the opening half and went into the interval trailing despite dominating possession.
Dorival Júnior’s side emerged with renewed purpose after the break and were rewarded in the 56th minute when veteran midfielder Casemiro restored parity. The Manchester United star rose highest to head home from Danilo’s delivery, breathing new life into Brazil’s bid for a place in the knockout stages.
Japan defended resolutely for much of the second half and appeared destined to force extra time as they frustrated Brazil’s attacking stars.
However, deep into added time, Gabriel Martinelli delivered the decisive moment. The Arsenal winger latched onto Bruno Guimarães’ pass before coolly finishing in the fifth minute of stoppage time to complete Brazil’s dramatic turnaround and spark wild celebrations among the Seleção players and supporters.
The victory keeps Brazil’s hopes of a record-extending sixth World Cup title alive and underlines their resilience after recovering from a first-half setback against a disciplined Japanese side.
For Japan, the defeat marked a heartbreaking end to an impressive campaign. Having threatened one of the tournament’s biggest upsets, they ultimately fell just moments away from taking the match into extra time.
Brazil will now turn their attention to the Round of 16, where they will face the winner of Tuesday’s clash between Ivory Coast and Norway as they continue their pursuit of global glory.
