Brazil booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to secure a 2-1 comeback victory over Japan in a thrilling Round of 32 clash on Monday.
Japan looked on course for a famous upset after taking the lead in the first half through Kaishu Sano, who capitalised on a defensive mistake to put the Samurai Blue ahead. The Asian side produced a disciplined display and frustrated the five-time world champions for much of the contest.
Brazil emerged with renewed intensity after the break and eventually found an equaliser through captain Casemiro, whose powerful header brought Carlo Ancelotti’s side back into the game. The momentum shifted firmly in Brazil’s favour as they piled pressure on Japan in search of a winner.
With extra time looming, substitute Gabriel Martinelli delivered the decisive moment, scoring deep into stoppage time to complete Brazil’s comeback and seal a place in the last 16. The Arsenal forward’s late strike sparked jubilant celebrations among Brazilian players and supporters while leaving Japan heartbroken after an impressive performance.
The victory marked Brazil’s first comeback win in a FIFA World Cup knockout match since the 2002 tournament and kept alive their quest for a record-extending sixth world title. They will now face the winner of the Round of 32 tie between Ivory Coast and Norway in the next stage of the competition.
Despite the defeat, Japan earned widespread praise for their spirited display, having matched Brazil for long periods before conceding the decisive goal in the closing moments. Their World Cup campaign ends in disappointment, but with their reputation enhanced after pushing one of football’s traditional powerhouses to the limit.
