Brazil avoided one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history as Gabriel Martinelli's stoppage-time strike secured a 2-1 victory over Japan in Houston, sending the five-time winners into the last 16 and sparing manager Carlo Ancelotti a potentially career-defining embarrassment.
Japan Stun Brazil with First-Half Opener
Japan took a surprise lead in the 30th minute through Kaishu Nano, who capitalised on a loose ball from Brazil defender Danilo. Nano burst past a sluggish Casemiro before drilling a low shot past goalkeeper Alisson, sparking wild celebrations among the Japanese squad. Brazil, despite dominating possession, had struggled to create clear chances, with Bruno Guimaraes seeing a shot deflected wide and Matheus Cunha failing to hit the target.
Casemiro Levels Before Martinelli's Late Heroics
Ancelotti's half-time team talk spurred a response. Casemiro, the former Manchester United midfielder, headed in the equaliser from a Gabriel cross after seeing an earlier header blocked on the line by a combination of Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, Hiroki Ito, and Takehiro Tomiyasu. Brazil continued to press, with Suzuki producing a world-class save to deny Vinicius Jr, tipping his effort onto the post. As the game appeared headed for extra time, Guimaraes delivered a sublime pass to Martinelli, who buried his shot off the post and over the line in stoppage time, sparking frenzied celebrations among the Brazilian players and staff.
Ancelotti's Relief as Brazil Keep Hopes Alive
The victory was a huge relief for Ancelotti, who had signed a new contract before the tournament. Defeat would have seen that contract effectively torn up, according to reports. Brazil's win keeps alive their quest for a first World Cup title since 2002. Japan's only previous victory over Brazil came in October 2025, when they came from two goals down to win 3-2. This time, they were denied a famous upset by Martinelli's late intervention.
