Brazil will continue their campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Japan in the round of 16. Under Carlo Ancelotti’s guidance, the five-time world champions showed resilience, overcoming a first-half deficit to secure their place in the next stage.
Both sides played to their strengths throughout the match. Japan relied on their discipline and physical endurance, maintaining constant movement that paid off in the 29th minute. A costly mistake by Danilo in midfield allowed Kaishu Sano to intercept the ball, surge forward, and fire a powerful shot from outside the box into the bottom corner, giving Japan an unexpected lead.
That goal seemed to unsettle Brazil, who failed to create any clear chances before halftime. However, the five-time champions returned transformed after the break, launching relentless attacks from the first whistle of the second half.
Casemiro came close to equalizing in the 54th minute, but Tomiyasu cleared his shot off the line. Just two minutes later, the Brazilian defensive midfielder made no mistake, finishing a precise cross from Gabriel to level the score.
Vinicius Junior then showcased his trademark dribbling skills, only to hit the post with a powerful strike. Despite Japan’s determined resistance, Brazil’s dominance was clear. The winning goal, however, did not arrive until the dying moments of regular time, adding a dramatic edge to the encounter. A major error from Tanaka while trying to exit his penalty area allowed Brazil to regain possession, and Martinelli calmly slotted the ball into the far bottom corner in the 96th minute to seal the victory.
In the next round, Brazil will face the winner of the Ivory Coast versus Norway tie.
2026 FIFA World Cup
Brazil 2-1 Japan (0-1 at halftime)
Goals: Sano 29 (0-1); Casemiro 56 (1-1); Martinelli 96 (2-1)
