Gabriel Martinelli's late winner sends Brazil into World Cup Round of 16
Gabriel Martinelli scored a stoppage-time winner as Brazil came from behind to defeat Japan 2-1 and book their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16. The Arsenal forward struck in the 95th minute after coming off the bench, breaking Japanese hearts just as the match appeared destined for extra time.
Five-time world champions Brazil will now face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the Round of 16 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Japan strike first
Japan stunned Brazil midway through the first half through Kaishu Sano. The midfielder intercepted a misplaced Brazilian pass in midfield before driving forward and firing a superb right-footed effort past Brazil's goalkeeper in the 29th minute.
The goal rewarded Japan's disciplined first-half performance as they frustrated one of the tournament favourites.
Brazil respond after the break
Brazil emerged with greater urgency in the second half and eventually found the breakthrough. After narrowly missing moments earlier, Casemiro powered home a header in the 56th minute from Gabriel Magalhães' delivery to bring Brazil level.
Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki got a hand to the effort but could not prevent the ball crossing the line. Suzuki produced another impressive display throughout the evening, finishing with four saves to keep Japan in contention.
Martinelli delivers at the death
As extra time loomed, Brazil finally found the decisive moment. Deep into stoppage time, Gabriel Martinelli produced a composed finish to complete Brazil's comeback and send the South American giants into the last 16.
The late strike sparked wild celebrations among Brazilian players and supporters inside Houston Stadium.
Vinicius and Brazil continue to threaten
Brazil created several chances after the equaliser. Vinícius Júnior, already among the tournament's leading scorers with four goals, came close to putting Brazil ahead shortly after Casemiro's goal.
His powerful effort beat Suzuki but crashed against the far post before bouncing away to safety. Bruno Guimarães and Casemiro had also forced excellent saves from Suzuki during Brazil's relentless second-half pressure.
Japan's historic wait continues
Despite another spirited World Cup campaign, Japan's search for a first-ever knockout victory continues. The Samurai Blue qualified from Group F after draws against the Netherlands and Sweden and a victory over Tunisia.
The defeat also ended Japan's impressive 10-match unbeaten run stretching back to September.
Brazil's winning tradition continues
Brazil's victory marked another chapter in their rich World Cup history. The win came on the anniversary of Brazil's first World Cup triumph in 1958, when a 17-year-old Pelé inspired the Seleção to victory in Sweden.
Brazil topped Group C after wins over Haiti and Scotland alongside a draw against Morocco. They now move one step closer to pursuing a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title.
SportsLigue
