Brazilian match-winner Martinelli speechless with joy

Gabriel Martinelli's late heroics secured Brazil's passage to the next round of the 2026 World Cup, with the Arsenal forward scoring a stunning 2-1 winner in stoppage time against Japan. The dramatic victory keeps Brazil's hopes of a sixth World Cup title alive.

Martinelli, who started the match on the bench, entered the game midway through the second half. After scoring the decisive goal, he struggled to articulate his emotions. "I can't find the words to describe the joy in my heart. To see all the fans rise, my family, my friends... I can't describe it," Martinelli said, according to AFP.

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I can't find the words to describe the joy in my heart. To see all the fans rise, my family, my friends... I can't describe it.

Brazil faced significant difficulties in the first half, with their play faltering and Japan taking the lead by halftime. Many Brazilian fans were hoping for the introduction of the slightly injured Neymar to turn the tide of the match.

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I told Neymar that if it was tied at a certain point, I would put him in. But it wasn't necessary.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti revealed that he had indeed planned to bring Neymar into the game had the score remained level into extra time. "I told Neymar that if it was tied at a certain point, I would put him in. But it wasn't necessary," Ancelotti stated, as reported by AFP. Neymar has been managing an injury throughout the tournament, and media speculation suggested he could only play for a maximum of 30 minutes at this stage.

With the score tied 1-1 until the final moments, an extra-time period seemed inevitable, offering a potential opportunity for Neymar to feature. However, Martinelli's decisive strike ensured that extra time was not needed, highlighting his impactful contribution off the bench. Ancelotti praised Martinelli's intensity and consistent high-level performance.

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Martinelli has great intensity as a player. He always delivers at the top level.