2026 World Cup: Brazil hit back to beat Japan in a thriller and reach the last 16
For almost an hour, doubt hung over the Selecao. Stunned by a well-drilled Japan side, Brazil eventually found a way through, turning the game around to win 2-1 on Monday in Houston. Gabriel Martinelli settled it deep into stoppage time and sent Carlo Ancelotti’s side into the last 16.
Japan thought they had done enough for a famous win
Brazil had actually started well, getting on the ball early and pinning Japan back. But one sloppy piece of build-up play changed everything. Kaishu Sano read it in midfield, nicked possession and broke clear on goal. His low finish caught Alisson out and put Japan ahead just before the half-hour mark.
Brazil tried to respond before the break, but they could not crack a Japan defence that stayed organised and stubborn throughout. By half-time, the shock was taking shape, and the numbers made it clear just how rare a Brazil comeback in a knockout game really is.
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Ancelotti gets it right
Brazil came out of the dressing room looking like a different side. They were sharper in the press, cleaner in the final third and soon pulled level. Casemiro, who had come close moments earlier, then got his header right and found the net.
Japan dug in for long spells after that, throwing bodies on the line and refusing to fold. But just as extra time loomed, Martinelli popped up in stoppage time, lashed home with his right foot and put Brazil through.
The win ends a long wait for the Selecao. You have to go back to 2002 for the last time Brazil came from behind in a knockout match and won it. Ancelotti’s men move on, though the injuries to Casemiro and Lucas Paqueta could soon become a concern before the next round.
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