Martinelli scores late to hand Japan heartbreak

Brazil needed a dramatic stoppage-time winner from Gabriel Martinelli to defeat Japan 2-1 and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after an enthralling last-32 encounter at Houston Stadium. 

Carlo Ancelotti’s side looked set for extra time before the Arsenal forward struck in the 96th minute to break Japanese hearts and send the five-time world champions through to the next stage.

Japan stunned Brazil midway through the first half when Koki Sano fired his side into the lead in the 29th minute after an impressive opening spell. 

The Asian side defended resolutely for much of the contest, frustrating Brazil’s star-studded attack while threatening on the counter-attack as they chased one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.

Brazil responded strongly after the break and restored parity in the 56th minute through veteran midfielder Casemiro, who powered home a header from Gabriel Magalhães’ delivery. 

The equaliser shifted the momentum firmly in Brazil’s favour as Vinicius Junior, Endrick, and Martinelli repeatedly tested Japan’s disciplined defence in search of a winner.

Despite relentless Brazilian pressure, Japan appeared on course to force extra time with goalkeeper Zion Suzuki producing several important interventions. 

However, deep into stoppage time, Bruno Guimarães split the Japanese defence with a perfectly weighted pass that found Martinelli, who controlled brilliantly before firing a low shot beyond Suzuki to spark wild celebrations among the Brazilian players and supporters.

The victory underlined the resilience of Ancelotti’s team, who once again found a way to overcome stubborn opposition in a high-pressure knockout match. 

Brazil completing a dramatic comeback keeps their hopes of a sixth World Cup title alive.

Brazil will now face either Norway or Ivory Coast in the Round of 16 as they continue their quest for World Cup glory.

For Japan, the defeat marked a cruel end to an impressive campaign, with Hajime Moriyasu’s side earning widespread praise for pushing one of football’s traditional powerhouses to the very limit before conceding at the death.