Brazil left it late, but Gabriel Martinelli’s dramatic stoppage-time strike sealed a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Japan in Houston, sending the five-time world champions into the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
For long spells, Carlo Ancelotti’s side looked on course for a shocking early exit after Japan produced another fearless display on the world stage. Kaishu Sano fired the Samurai Blue ahead in the first half, stunning Brazil and putting Japan within touching distance of a historic first-ever World Cup knockout win.
Sano’s goal came in the 29th minute after capitalizing on a poor pass from Danilo. The midfielder surged past Casemiro with ease before unleashing a clinical finish from the edge of the area, leaving Brazil’s defense exposed and their fans in disbelief.
Japan’s disciplined defending and sharp transitions frustrated Brazil throughout the first half, and the South American giants went into the break trailing.
But Brazil responded almost immediately after the restart.
Casemiro, who endured a difficult first half and was partly at fault for Japan’s opener, made amends in the 56th minute. Just moments after missing a golden chance in chaotic fashion—his header ricocheting off Takehiro Tomiyasu, goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, and back off Tomiyasu on the line—the veteran midfielder rose highest to head home Gabriel’s inviting cross at the far post.
The equalizer reignited Brazil.
Vinicius Jr nearly completed the comeback moments later with a dazzling solo run, weaving through Japan’s defense before firing a shot that Suzuki brilliantly tipped onto the post.
Japan, however, refused to fold. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki was outstanding throughout, making crucial saves and keeping his side alive as Brazil pushed for a winner.
But heartbreak struck in the dying moments.
Deep into stoppage time, Bruno Guimaraes slipped a clever pass into the box for substitute Gabriel Martinelli, who reacted quickest to poke the ball goalward. Suzuki got a hand to it, but could only watch helplessly as it bounced off the inside of the post and rolled over the line.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among Brazil players and fans, as Martinelli became the hero of the night.
The victory books Brazil’s place in the Round of 16, where they will face either Norway or Ivory Coast on Sunday.
For Japan, it was another painful chapter in their World Cup history. Despite leading in each of their last three knockout-stage matches, they have now lost all three—a cruel reminder of how fine the margins can be on football’s biggest stage.
