Brazil produced a dramatic comeback to beat Japan 2-1 and secure a place in the last 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Gabriel Martinelli scored a stoppage-time winner.
The South Americans looked to be heading for a shock exit after Japan took a first-half lead and defended resolutely for much of the match. However, Carlo Ancelotti’s side showed their experience and determination to turn the game around in the closing stages.
Japan made an impressive start and deservedly went ahead after taking advantage of a costly mistake by Brazil. Danilo’s loose pass was intercepted by Kaishu Sano, who drove past Casemiro before firing a low shot into the bottom corner to put the Asian side in front.
Brazil struggled to create clear opportunities before half-time as Japan’s disciplined defensive system frustrated the five-time world champions. The South Americans enjoyed most of the possession but found little space in the final third.
The game changed after the break as Ancelotti made tactical adjustments and introduced fresh energy into his side. Brazil began attacking more aggressively, using the wide areas and delivering crosses into the penalty box.
Their pressure paid off in the 55th minute when veteran midfielder Casemiro rose highest to head home Gabriel’s cross from close range and bring Brazil level.
Brazil nearly completed the turnaround moments later through Vinicius Junior. The winger produced a brilliant solo run, beating two defenders before seeing his effort pushed onto the post by Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
Despite Brazil’s dominance in the second half, Japan remained organised and resilient. Defender Takehiro Tomiyasu produced an excellent goal-line clearance, while the Japanese side continued to threaten on the counter-attack whenever opportunities arose.
With extra time appearing certain, Japan suffered heartbreak in the fifth minute of stoppage time. Midfielder Ao Tanaka lost possession near his own penalty area, allowing Bruno Guimaraes to quickly play the ball to Gabriel Martinelli. The Brazilian forward took one touch before calmly placing his shot into the net off the post.
The late winner sparked wild celebrations among the Brazilian players and supporters, while Japan’s players collapsed to the ground in disappointment after producing one of their finest performances of the tournament.
Brazil will now face either Norway or Ivory Coast in the Round of 16 as they continue their pursuit of a sixth FIFA World Cup title.
For Japan, the defeat ends another brave World Cup campaign. Coach Hajime Moriyasu’s side had pushed one of football’s greatest nations to the limit, but one costly mistake in the closing moments proved decisive.
Once again, Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical adjustments and Brazil’s never-say-die spirit ensured that the five-time champions survived a major scare and kept their World Cup dream alive.
