Brazil booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan, with Gabriel Martinelli’s stoppage-time winner breaking Japanese hearts in an enthralling Round of 32 clash.
Japan made an impressive start and stunned the five-time world champions in the 29th minute. Midfielder Keito Sanofound space inside the penalty area before calmly finishing past the Brazilian goalkeeper to give the Samurai Blue a deserved 1-0 lead. Japan’s disciplined defending and quick counter-attacks frustrated Brazil for the remainder of the first half, as they carried their advantage into the break.
Brazil returned with greater urgency after halftime and dominated possession in search of an equaliser. Their persistence finally paid off in the 56th minute when experienced midfielder Casemiro rose highest to meet a well-delivered cross, powering a header into the net to level the score at 1-1. The goal shifted the momentum firmly in Brazil’s favour, but Japan continued to defend bravely while creating occasional chances on the counter.
As the match entered stoppage time, extra time appeared inevitable. However, Brazil produced one final attack in the sixth minute of added time. A precise pass found Gabriel Martinelli, who kept his composure before firing a clinical finish beyond the Japanese goalkeeper in the 90+6th minute. The dramatic late strike sparked wild celebrations among the Brazilian players and supporters as it sealed a thrilling 2-1 victory.
