Martinelli’s Late Strike Breaks Stubborn Japan as Brazil Win 2-1 to Reach Round of 16

By Emmanuel Kwada

Brazil booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in dramatic fashion on Monday, defeating a spirited Japan side 2-1 thanks to a stoppage-time winner from substitute Gabriel Martinelli.

The South American giants were forced to come from behind after Japan stunned the five-time world champions with an early goal from midfielder Koki Sano, who capitalized on a defensive lapse to put the Samurai Blue ahead and silence Brazilian supporters.

Lowkey the best goal in the tournament man pic.twitter.com/fzvQxXEH6m https://t.co/IMoCROgtjP

— Kobi (@UTDKobi) June 29, 2026

Japan’s disciplined defensive display frustrated Brazil throughout much of the contest, as the Asian side looked poised to pull off one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Despite dominating possession and creating several opportunities, Brazil struggled to break down Japan’s resilient backline.

The breakthrough eventually came in the second half when Brazil intensified their pressure. The equalizer arrived after sustained attacks, restoring hope for Dorival Júnior’s side and setting up a tense finish.

As the match entered injury time with extra time looming, Brazil found the decisive moment. Midfielder Bruno Guimarães produced a superb defence-splitting pass that carved open the Japanese defence, sending Gabriel Martinelli through on goal. The Arsenal forward kept his composure and fired past the goalkeeper to complete a remarkable comeback and seal a 2-1 victory.

The dramatic winner sparked wild celebrations among Brazilian players and fans as the Seleção secured their passage to the next round.

🚨 Gabriel Martinelli’s goal in Brazil vs Japan🇧🇷

pic.twitter.com/LD1OUIPa2x

— Sports on Predict (@predictdotsport) June 29, 2026

Veteran midfielder Casemiro was named FIFA Man of the Match after delivering a commanding performance in the heart of midfield. The former Real Madrid star provided leadership, composure and defensive stability throughout the encounter, helping Brazil recover from an early setback and maintain control during crucial periods of the game.

Japan earned widespread praise despite the defeat, with Koki Sano’s opener and the team’s disciplined organisation pushing one of football’s traditional powerhouses to the brink.

The victory means Brazil advance to the Round of 16, where they will continue their pursuit of a sixth World Cup title. They join Canada, who edged South Africa 1-0 on Sunday to become one of the first teams to secure passage into the next phase of the competition.

With the knockout stage gathering momentum, attention now turns to Tuesday’s Round of 32 fixtures, including Ivory Coast against Norway, France versus Sweden, and Mexico’s clash with Ecuador as teams battle for a place among the final 16.

Casemiro was named FIFA Man of the Match

For Brazil, however, the night belonged to Martinelli. Introduced from the bench when his side needed inspiration, the winger delivered the decisive blow, ensuring the Seleção’s World Cup dream remains alive and proving once again why Brazil are regarded as one of the tournament favourites.

Read Also: Canada Beats South Africa, Scripts First-Ever Men’s World Cup Round of 16 Berth