Brazil Fight Back to Beat Japan 2-1 and Reach World Cup Round of 16

Brazil secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Japan to book a place in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Gabriel Martinelli scored a stoppage-time winner in Houston.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side recovered from a first-half deficit to keep their World Cup campaign alive, while Japan’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage ended in heartbreaking fashion.

Japan Take First-Half Lead

Japan produced an impressive first-half performance and went ahead through Kaishu Sano.

The midfielder found space outside the penalty area before beating Brazil goalkeeper Alisson with a well-placed strike after moving past Casemiro.

The goal gave Japan a deserved lead at halftime and left Brazil facing the possibility of an early World Cup exit.

Casemiro Brings Brazil Back

Brazil responded strongly after the break and found the equalizer through Casemiro.

Moments after missing a clear scoring opportunity, the veteran midfielder headed home Gabriel’s cross at the far post to level the match.

The goal lifted Brazil’s confidence as they increased the pressure on Japan during the second half.

Martinelli Scores Dramatic Winner

Brazil continued to create chances, with Vinicius Junior coming close after an impressive solo run that forced goalkeeper Zion Suzuki into an excellent save before the ball struck the post.

As the match entered stoppage time, substitute Gabriel Martinelli delivered the decisive moment.

His close-range effort in the 96th minute slipped past Suzuki, who managed to get a hand on the ball before it crossed the goal line after striking the inside of the post.

The late goal sparked celebrations among Brazil’s supporters and secured qualification for the knockout stage.