Martinelli's late goal sends Brazil past Japan in World Cup thriller

Gabriel Martinelli's dramatic late goal secured Brazil's advancement in the World Cup, as they edged past Japan with a 2-1 victory.

The match was tied 1-1 with less than a minute remaining before halftime when Martinelli, Arsenal's star player, found the net to send Brazil through to the next stage. Brazil started the match stronger but struggled to create clear scoring opportunities. Japan capitalized on a Brazilian error in possession, with midfielder Kaishu Sano seizing the ball, driving forward, and placing it into the far corner, leaving goalkeeper Alisson Becker with no chance.

Brazil emerged transformed in the second half, and their pressure paid off with an equalizer. Center-back Gabriel delivered a perfect cross, and Casemiro headed the ball home. Shortly after, Vinicius Júnior struck the post with a shot. The game appeared headed for extra time until the 95th minute, when Gabriel Martinelli stepped up to score the decisive 2-1 goal, sending Brazil to the Round of 16.

Brazil now awaits the winner of the match between Norway and Ivory Coast in the next round of the tournament.