World Cup: Gabriel Martinelli’s late goal powers Brazil to round of 16 win over Japan
Five-time champions Brazil are through to the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a 2-1 comeback win over the Samurai Blue of Japan at Houston Stadium on Monday.
Kaishu Sano put Japan ahead an hour into the round-of-32 match when he beat goalkeeper Alisson Becker with a low shot from outside the 18-yard box to stun the Brazilians.
Brazil went to work immediately after the half-time break in an attempt to find an equaliser.
Danilo’s header from close range in the 53rd minute was saved by goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who then cleared another header by Casemiro off the line two minutes later.
The South American side finally managed to beat Suzuki in the 56th minute when the former Manchester United midfielder headed home Gabriel’s cross to draw level.
All seemed set for the first extra-time match of the knockout stage, but Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli prevented that from happening by slotting home a pass from Bruno Guimarães in the fifth minute of six minutes of added time to secure a late victory for Brazil.
Brazil will face the winners of the round of 32 tie between Ivory Coast and Norway on Tuesday for a place in the quarterfinals.
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