Brazil booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Japan, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring a late winner to keep the Seleção’s title hopes alive.
Japan stunned the five-time world champions by taking the lead in the first half and looked on course for a famous upset. Brazil, however, responded with the determination and quality that have defined their World Cup history.
After the break, Casemiro stepped up to restore parity, giving Brazil renewed belief as they pushed forward in search of a winner. With the match heading towards extra time, Martinelli produced the decisive moment, finding the net deep into stoppage time to complete a thrilling turnaround.
The late strike sparked wild celebrations among the Brazilian players and fans, while Japan were left heartbroken after coming so close to a memorable victory.
Brazil’s hard-fought win secures their passage to the Round of 16, where they will continue their quest for a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title.
Brazil survive a major scare, but Martinelli’s moment of brilliance ensures the Seleção march on in pursuit of a sixth World Cup crown
Richard Achore is a versatile Ghanaian sports journalist, media administrator, and officer with the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) and the Founder of the online sports portal Ghsportsnews.com and Ghana Talk News