Brazil came from behind to defeat Japan 2-1 in a dramatic round-of-32 clash at the 2026 World Cup, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring a stoppage-time winner to send the five-time champions through.
Casemiro had earlier equalised after Kaishu Sano gave Japan a shock lead, but it was Martinelli’s late strike that secured victory in what appeared headed for extra time.
The result sets up a quarter-final clash against either Ivory Coast or Norway, keeping Brazil’s campaign alive after a tense encounter.
Brazil dominated possession and chances throughout, but Japan defended stubbornly until the final moments. The dramatic finish highlighted the high stakes in the expanded tournament.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti’s side will now prepare for the next round, with Brazil expected to be among the favourites to go far.
