Brazil edge past Japan with last-gasp winner to reach round of 16
Brazil survived a major scare against Japan in Houston, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory to book their place in the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Carlo Ancelotti's side fell behind in the first half after Kaishu Sano put Japan ahead, but veteran midfielder Casemiro restored parity with a second-half header before Gabriel Martinelli struck deep into stoppage time to send the five-time world champions through.
Brazil dominated possession early in the Round of 32 clash, yet it was Japan who struck first in the 28th minute. A misplaced Brazilian pass allowed Kaishu Sano to win the ball before surging forward and unleashing a powerful effort from outside the penalty area that found the back of the net.
The goal raised hopes of a major World Cup upset as Japan took a surprise lead against the tournament favorites.
Brazil responded by increasing the pressure, but Japan's disciplined defensive structure frustrated Ancelotti's men throughout the remainder of the first half. Vinicius Junior was often forced into central areas, limiting his opportunities to exploit one-on-one situations on the left flank, while Japan packed the midfield to deny Brazil any rhythm.
The complexion of the match changed after the interval.
Ancelotti introduced Endrick in place of Lucas Paqueta and instructed Vinicius to stay wider on the left, giving Brazil greater attacking width and pace.
The equalizer arrived in the 55th minute. An attack initiated down Vinicius' flank reached Gabriel Magalhaes, whose cross was met by Casemiro with a powerful header. Although the goal was briefly checked for a possible offside, it was ultimately confirmed, bringing Brazil level at 1-1.
With momentum firmly on their side, Brazil took complete control of the contest.
Three minutes later, Vinicius produced a brilliant individual run, only to be denied by Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki. Brazil continued to pin Japan deep inside their own half, launching wave after wave of attacks.
Japan gradually retreated into a defensive shell, hoping to force the match into extra time. Brazil, however, maintained relentless pressure through crosses, set pieces and quick passing combinations in search of a decisive breakthrough.
Casemiro's evening took an unfortunate turn in the 92nd minute when the goalscorer was forced off with an injury and replaced by Fabinho. It was a bittersweet night for the experienced midfielder, who had rescued Brazil with the equalizer but was unable to finish the match.
Just as extra time seemed inevitable, Brazil found the winner.
In the closing moments of stoppage time, Bruno Guimaraes produced an excellent piece of play inside the penalty area before setting up Gabriel Martinelli, who calmly slotted the ball into the net to complete Brazil's dramatic comeback and spark celebrations in Houston.
The defeat was heartbreaking for Japan. Hajime Moriyasu's side executed their game plan effectively, took an early lead and troubled Brazil for much of the match. However, they were ultimately undone by Brazil's sustained pressure, superior experience and the quality of Ancelotti's substitutes.
It was far from a comfortable victory for Brazil and served as a reminder that knockout football cannot be won on reputation alone. Vinicius' attacking threat, Casemiro's leadership, Bruno Guimaraes' creativity and Martinelli's clinical finish combined to rescue the Seleção.
Brazil now advance to the Round of 16, but Ancelotti will have concerns ahead of their next match. Lucas Paqueta's injury, Casemiro's fitness issue and the team's sluggish first-half performance are all likely to come under close scrutiny.
Ultimately, though, knockout football is defined by results. In Houston, Brazil earned theirs in the most dramatic fashion possible—with a stoppage-time winner from Gabriel Martinelli.