Martinelli's Stoppage-Time Strike Sends Brazil Past Japan and Into World Cup Round of 16

Martinelli's Stoppage-Time Strike Sends Brazil Past Japan and Into World Cup Round of 16

Brazil Leave It Late as Gabriel Martinelli Seals Dramatic 2-1 Victory in Houston

Brazil booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to secure a 2-1 victory over Japan in Houston.

The five-time world champions were pushed to the limit by a spirited Japanese side and appeared destined for extra time before Martinelli produced a decisive moment in the sixth minute of added time.

Japan shocked Brazil by taking the lead in the 29th minute through Kaishu Sano. The midfielder capitalized on a misplaced pass in midfield before firing a powerful right-footed effort past the Brazilian goalkeeper to put the Asian side ahead.

Brazil increased the pressure after the break and eventually found an equaliser in the 56th minute. Casemiro rose highest to meet Gabriel Magalhães' delivery and headed the ball beyond Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki to bring the score level at 1-1.

The South American giants continued to create chances, with Vinícius Júnior and Bruno Guimarães both testing Suzuki as Brazil searched for a winner. However, Japan's defence remained resilient and looked set to force the match into extra time.

The breakthrough finally arrived in stoppage time when substitute Gabriel Martinelli found space inside the penalty area and scored the decisive goal, sparking celebrations among the Brazilian players and supporters.

Japan battled bravely throughout the contest and came close to recording one of the biggest results in their football history. However, they were unable to hold off Brazil's relentless pressure in the closing moments.

The victory sends Brazil into the Round of 16, where they will face either Ivory Coast or Norway, while Japan's impressive World Cup campaign comes to an end.

Match Result

Brazil 2-1 Japan

Goals

Kaishu Sano (Japan) – 29'

Casemiro (Brazil) – 56'

Gabriel Martinelli (Brazil) – 90+6'

Brazil continue their pursuit of a sixth World Cup title, while Japan exit the tournament after another spirited and memorable campaign on the world stage.