Brazil are through, but Japan made them suffer until the very last moments.

In a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash at Houston Stadium, Brazil came from behind to beat Japan 2-1, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring the decisive goal in the 90+5’ minute. Japan had taken the lead through Kaishu Sano in the first half, but Brazil responded after the break through Casemiro before Martinelli delivered the late knockout blow.

Japan started with confidence and showed no fear against one of the tournament favourites. Their aggressive opening was rewarded in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano found the net to give Japan a 1-0 lead. It was a deserved moment for a side that had frustrated Brazil and forced them into uncomfortable areas.

Brazil struggled to find rhythm in the first half. Casemiro was booked early in the 14th minute, while Japan also picked up yellow cards through Sano and Daichi Kamada before half-time. At the break, Brazil needed a reaction.

That reaction arrived in the 56th minute. Casemiro, already on a yellow card, stepped up when Brazil needed leadership most and scored the equaliser to make it 1-1. The goal changed the energy of the match and pushed Brazil forward, but Japan refused to collapse.

Both coaches turned to the bench as the second half became more intense. Brazil introduced Gabriel Martinelli in the 65th minute, replacing Matheus Cunha, and the change would later prove decisive. Japan also made several changes, bringing on fresh legs including Keito Nakamura, Ritsu Doan, Junya Ito and Daichi Kamada as they tried to survive the late Brazilian pressure.

As the match moved into stoppage time, Japan looked close to forcing extra time. But in the 90+5’ minute, Brazil found one final moment of quality. Gabriel Martinelli scored the winner, completing Brazil’s comeback and breaking Japanese hearts.

It was a painful ending for Japan, who had competed bravely and looked disciplined for long periods. But Brazil’s experience, patience and late attacking power made the difference.

The final whistle confirmed a 2-1 Brazil win and a place in the next round. It was not an easy night for Brazil, but knockout football is about survival — and thanks to Martinelli’s late goal, Brazil survived.

Match details

Final score: Brazil 2-1 Japan
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026
Round: Round of 32
Venue: Houston Stadium, Houston
Attendance: 68,777
Referee: Maurizio Mariani

Goals

29’ — Kaishu Sano: Brazil 0-1 Japan
56’ — Casemiro: Brazil 1-1 Japan
90+5’ — Gabriel Martinelli: Brazil 2-1 Japan