World Cup: Martinelli seals dramatic Brazil comeback against Japan

Gabriel Martinelli's stoppage-time goal secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory for Brazil over Japan, propelling the Samba Boys into the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This marked Brazil's first World Cup knockout comeback win since their triumph against England in 2002.

Japan had taken a surprising lead in the 29th minute through Kaishu Sano, who capitalized on a midfield error and beat Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker. The goal unsettled the five-time world champions, who struggled to find their rhythm before halftime, having not won any of their previous five World Cup matches after conceding the first goal.

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A dramatic stoppage-time winner by Gabriel Martinelli sealed victory for the Samba Boys.

Following the break, Brazil emerged with renewed vigor, with substitute Endrick injecting pace into their attack. Despite facing strong saves from Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who denied Matheus Cunha, Bruno Guimaraes, and Casemiro, Brazil eventually found the equalizer. Veteran midfielder Casemiro headed home a cross from Gabriel Magalhaes just before the hour mark, becoming the second-oldest Brazilian to score in a World Cup at 34 years and 126 days.

As the match seemed destined for extra time, Bruno Guimaraes provided his fourth assist of the tournament, finding Martinelli at the far post. The Arsenal forward then curled his shot into the net in stoppage time, sealing Brazil's hard-fought victory. The result ends Japan's World Cup hopes and extends their winless streak against Brazil in competitive matches. Brazil now awaits the winner of the match between Côte d'Ivoire and Norway in the last 16.

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At 34 years and 126 days, Casemiro became the second-oldest Brazilian player to score at the FIFA World Cup, behind Bebeto.