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Sports Desk
Photo: FIFA
Houston: Five-time champions Brazil came from behind to defeat Japan 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring a stoppage-time winner to send the Seleção into the Round of 16.
Japan stunned the Brazilian side in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano produced a brilliant solo effort to give the Asian side a deserved lead. The Japanese defended resolutely and carried their advantage into the halftime break.
Brazil responded strongly after the restart. Veteran midfielder Casemiro headed home the equaliser in the 55th minute, restoring parity and shifting the momentum in Brazil's favour.
As the match appeared destined for extra time, Brazil found the decisive breakthrough deep into stoppage time. Gabriel Martinelli latched onto a precise through ball from Bruno Guimarães before calmly finishing
past goalkeeper Zion Suzuki in the 96th minute.
The hard-fought victory keeps Brazil's hopes of a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title alive. Carlo Ancelotti's side will now face the winner of the Round of 32 match between Ivory Coast and Norway in the Round of 16.
Japan exited the tournament after an impressive campaign, having pushed one of football's traditional powerhouses to the brink in Houston.
