Houston: Brazil secured a place in the FIFA World Cup last 16 after Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to seal a 2-1 victory over Japan in Houston.
The five-time world champions looked set for extra time before the Arsenal forward struck in the sixth minute of added time to keep Brazil’s title hopes alive.
Japan made a bright start and took the lead in the 29th minute through Kaishu Sano. A misplaced pass in midfield allowed Sano to win possession before firing a powerful right-footed shot from outside the penalty area beyond Brazil’s goalkeeper. The goal gave Japan confidence as the team looked to reach the World Cup round of 16 for the first time.
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Brazil responded strongly after the break and found the equaliser in the 56th minute. Casemiro headed home from a Gabriel Magalhães assist after coming close just minutes earlier. Vinicius Junior also threatened to put Brazil ahead, but Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki produced an impressive save to deny the Real Madrid forward.
The match appeared destined for extra time as Japan defended bravely against constant Brazilian pressure. However, substitute Gabriel Martinelli delivered the decisive moment in the sixth minute of stoppage time, scoring the winning goal to send Brazil into the next round and end Japan’s hopes of a historic knockout victory.
The victory extended Brazil’s impressive record against Japan to 12 wins in 15 meetings. Brazil will now face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the FIFA World Cup round of 16, while Japan exited the tournament after an encouraging campaign that included an unbeaten group-stage run.
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