Brazil Beat Japan to Reach FIFA World Cup Round of 16

Sports Mail24
Published: 01:30AM. 30 Jun 2026
Brazil Beat Japan to Reach FIFA World Cup Round of 16

Brazil came from behind to defeat Japan 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash, securing their place in the Round of 16 with a last-gasp winner from Gabriel Martinelli.

Japan stunned the five-time world champions by taking the lead in the 29th minute. Kaishu Sano found the back of the net with a brilliant strike, giving the Asian side a 1-0 advantage heading into halftime.

After the break, Brazil responded with greater intensity and continuously pressed for an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 56th minute when Casemiro headed home from Gabriel Magalhães' cross to level the score at 1-1.

With the match evenly balanced, both teams continued to create chances in an end-to-end contest. Just as extra time seemed inevitable, Brazil produced the decisive moment deep into stoppage time.

In the 90+6th minute, Bruno Guimarães set up Gabriel Martinelli, who fired a low angled shot into the net to complete Brazil's comeback and seal a dramatic 2-1 victory.

Japan had little time to respond after conceding the late goal. Despite a spirited performance, they were unable to find another equaliser and bowed out of the tournament in the Round of 32.

The victory sends one of the tournament favourites into the Round of 16, while Japan's impressive World Cup campaign comes to an end after a courageous display against the five-time champions.

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