Brazil scored a dramatic injury-time winner to break Japanese hearts and book their place in the last 16 of the World Cup, with Gabriel Martinelli's 93rd-minute strike sending Japanese players and fans into meltdown.
Martinelli's Late Heroics
Carlo Ancelotti's side came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory in the round of 32 clash, with Arsenal forward Martinelli converting a deft through ball from Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes. The goal sparked wild celebrations among Brazilian players and supporters, while Japanese players fell to their knees in disbelief.
TV footage captured Japanese fans screaming in the stands as Brazil supporters draped opposition fans in the flag of the Canarinho. The majority of Japan's players were in tears after the late heartbreak, consoling one another on the pitch.
Japan's Early Lead
Japan had taken the lead through a stunning strike from Kaishu Sano on 29 minutes, putting them on course for their nation's maiden World Cup knockout victory. However, Brazil responded when Casemiro made amends for a lacklustre first-half showing with an excellent header to level the score.
The contest looked destined for extra time following a tense end to the second half, but Martinelli, introduced by Ancelotti on 66 minutes, completed the comeback with his decisive goal.
Ancelotti's Composure
Brazil boss Ancelotti appeared to be the only one to maintain his composure, showing his class by shaking the hand of Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu while his players celebrated wildly. When asked for his verdict post match, Ancelotti told fifa.com: "We didn't lose our patience. We had a lot of resources on the pitch and on the bench but Japan aren't an easy opponent. They're very organised and intense."
Much has been made of Neymar's inclusion in the World Cup squad, but the icon hasn't made an appearance at the tournament thus far. When asked why he did not introduce Neymar, Ancelotti said: "I was saving Neymar for extra time. He was going to come on after 105 minutes if we hadn't scored the second goal. I didn't want to change the structure because the team was playing well."
Moriyasu's Disappointment
Japan coach Moriyasu could not hide his disappointment and said: "I'm very disappointed that we have to leave the tournament at this stage, but the players gave their all today, as they did throughout the journey to reach this point. Right now I'm devastated after giving everything we had, but I want to accept this result and use it to become an even stronger team."
