Brazil edges Japan 2-1 in World Cup 2026 round of 16 clash
At the NRG Stadium in Houston on Monday, Brazil secured a 2-1 victory over Japan in the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16. Gabriel Martinelli scored the winner in stoppage time after Casemiro had equalized following Kaishu Sano's first-half opener.
Japan took the lead in the 29th minute when Sano collected the ball in midfield, dribbled past several Brazilian defenders, and finished past goalkeeper Alisson Becker. The goal gave Japan a 1-0 lead at halftime.
Brazil dominated possession and created several chances in the first half, with Matheus Cunha forcing a save from Japan's goalkeeper Zion Suzuki in the 11th minute. However, Japan's defence remained compact, and Brazil struggled to break through.
In the second half, Brazil introduced Endrick to add pace to the attack. The pressure increased, and Casemiro headed in the equalizer in the 56th minute from a cross.
Despite the equalizer, Brazil continued to press, and Japan mounted a resolute defensive effort. In the fifth minute of stoppage time, substitute Martinelli weaved through the Japanese defence and scored the winning goal, completing the comeback.
The victory sends Brazil into the quarterfinals, while Japan exits the tournament after a performance that earned praise for its discipline and resilience.
