Brazil survived a huge scare against Japan in the World Cup 2026 Round of 32, coming from behind to win 2-1 thanks to Gabriel Martinelli’s dramatic stoppage-time goal in Houston.

The five-time world champions were staring at elimination before second-half goals from Casemiro and Martinelli turned the match on its head.

How the match unfolded

Japan took the lead through Kaishu Sano, who fired home with a brilliant finish to stun the Brazilian defence. The goal was controversial, however, as Sano had moments earlier escaped what many felt should have been a second yellow card for a challenge on Matheus Cunha.

Brazil struggled to break down a well-organised Japanese side for much of the match. Carlo Ancelotti’s team dominated possession but lacked the cutting edge needed to find an equaliser.

Casemiro levels it up

The equaliser came from an unlikely source. Veteran midfielder Casemiro rose highest to power home a header from a pinpoint Gabriel cross, bringing Brazil level and injecting life into their attack.

The goal changed the momentum of the match. Japan, who had defended brilliantly for over an hour, suddenly found themselves under sustained pressure.

Martinelli’s dramatic winner

With the match heading towards extra time, Martinelli produced a moment of magic. In the 96th minute, the Arsenal forward struck to send Brazilian fans into delirium and seal a place in the last 16.

The goal was a testament to Brazil’s never-say-die attitude. Even when things looked bleak, Ancelotti’s side kept pushing and were rewarded with one of the most dramatic finishes of the tournament so far.

What it means for Brazil

The win sets up a last-16 clash against either Norway or Ivory Coast. While the performance was far from convincing, the result showed that this Brazil side has the character to grind out results when it matters most.

For Japan, it is a heartbreaking exit. They played their part in a thrilling contest and were arguably the better side for large portions of the match. The controversial moment involving Sano’s unpunished challenge will be debated for some time.

Key talking points

  • Sano’s escape: Should Japan’s goalscorer have been sent off before his goal? The challenge on Cunha looked worthy of a second yellow card.
  • Casemiro’s experience: The former Real Madrid midfielder proved his worth with a crucial equaliser at a vital moment.
  • Martinelli’s impact: Coming off the bench, the Arsenal man delivered when it mattered most with his 96th-minute strike.
  • Ancelotti’s tactical tweaks: Brazil’s manager changed the shape in the second half, and it paid off handsomely.

What to watch next

Brazil will need to improve significantly if they are to go deep in this tournament. Their next opponents will pose a different kind of challenge, and Ancelotti will know that relying on last-minute heroics is not a sustainable strategy.

For now, though, Brazilian fans can celebrate a famous comeback victory that keeps their World Cup dreams alive.