Brazil booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup last 16 after Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to seal a 2-1 victory over Japan in a thrilling round of 32 clash in Houston on Monday.
The five-time world champions were made to work hard by a disciplined Japanese side that took a surprise lead in the 29th minute. Kaishu Sano capitalised on a misplaced pass in midfield before driving forward and firing a superb right-footed strike beyond the Brazilian goalkeeper to hand Japan a deserved advantage.
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Brazil responded strongly after the break and found the equaliser in the 56th minute. Defender Gabriel Magalhães delivered a pinpoint ball into the area, where Casemiro rose highest to power home a header after coming close moments earlier.
The South Americans continued to pile on the pressure in search of a winner. Vinícius Júnior, who has enjoyed an impressive tournament, nearly completed the comeback two minutes later, but his effort was brilliantly pushed onto the post by Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
Just as extra time appeared inevitable, Martinelli produced the decisive moment in the sixth minute of stoppage time, finding the back of the net to send Brazil into the next round.
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