Brazil Fight Back to Beat Japan 2-1 as Martinelli’s Late Winner Secures World Cup Last-16 Spot

Brazil national football team staged a dramatic second-half comeback to defeat Japan national football team 2-1, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring a stoppage-time winner to send the five-time world champions into the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.

Japan produced an impressive first-half display and stunned the Brazilians in the 29th minute through Kaishū Sano. The midfielder drove forward from the centre of the pitch before firing a low shot beyond goalkeeper Alisson Becker to hand his side a deserved lead.

Despite dominating possession before the break, Brazil struggled to break down Japan’s disciplined defence and went into half-time trailing 1-0.

Head coach Carlo Ancelotti responded by introducing Endrick, whose arrival injected greater pace and urgency into Brazil’s attack.

Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki produced several outstanding saves to preserve his side’s advantage, but Brazil eventually found the equaliser shortly before the hour mark.

Veteran midfielder Casemiro rose above the defence to power home a header from a cross delivered by Gabriel Magalhães, bringing Brazil back into the contest.

The equaliser completely shifted the momentum in Brazil’s favour as they pushed relentlessly for a winner.

Vinícius Júnior came agonisingly close after seeing a superb effort tipped onto the woodwork, while Japan gradually retreated under sustained pressure.

Just when the match appeared destined for extra time, Bruno Guimarães delivered a pinpoint pass to Martinelli at the far post.

The Arsenal forward kept his composure and curled a precise finish in off the upright in the 96th minute, completing Brazil’s comeback and securing a place in the knockout stage.

The victory keeps Brazil on course for a potential meeting with Argentina national football team later in the tournament, while Japan’s search for a first competitive victory over Brazil continues.

The result also marked Brazil’s first World Cup victory after trailing at half-time since defeating Turkey national football team on June 3, 2002.

Brazil also dominated possession throughout the contest, completing 682 passes, with Gabriel Magalhães attempting 135 passes—the highest by any Brazilian player at this year’s World Cup.

The South American giants will now face either Norway national football team or Ivory Coast national football team in the Round of 16 as they continue their pursuit of a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title.