Arsenal forward scores dramatic stoppage-time winner after Japan push Brazil to the limit in Houston thriller.
HOUSTON, USA – Brazil have booked their place in the last 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan, with Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli scoring a late winner to end a thrilling encounter at the NRG Stadium.
Japan looked on course for one of the biggest World Cup shocks after Kaishu Sano gave the Asian side the lead in the 29th minute with a superb counter-attacking finish.
The goal stunned Brazil, who struggled to respond during the remainder of the first half as Japan defended their advantage confidently and went into the break ahead.
However, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti changed the game at halftime by introducing young striker Endrick for midfielder Lucas Paquetá, giving the South Americans more attacking threat.
The five-time world champions found the equaliser in the 56th minute when Casemiro headed in from a well-delivered cross by Gabriel Magalhães.
Japan appeared set to force extra time after a disciplined defensive display, but a costly mistake in stoppage time changed the outcome.
Ao Tanaka lost possession near the edge of Japan’s penalty area, allowing Brazil to quickly attack. Martinelli collected the ball, took a touch and fired home the decisive goal in the fifth minute of added time.
The victory sends Brazil into the knockout stage, where they will face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the last 16.
Knockout Stage Intensifies
Brazil’s dramatic win was among three last-32 matches scheduled on Monday as the World Cup knockout rounds gathered pace.
Germany national football team were set to face Paraguay, with the winner advancing to meet either France or Sweden.
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said his team’s objective remains to win every match despite not being among the leading favourites for the title.
Meanwhile, Netherlands national football team prepared for a challenging clash against Morocco national football team, with Dutch coach Ronald Koeman warning of Morocco’s attacking quality.
Morocco impressed at the 2022 World Cup by reaching the semi-finals, while the Netherlands continue searching for their first world title after three previous final appearances.
Awaiting the winners of the knockout ties are co-hosts Canada men’s national soccer team, who became the first team to reach the last 16 after defeating South Africa 1-0.
Captain Stephen Eustáquio scored the decisive goal deep into stoppage time, with coach Jesse Marsch describing the achievement as a historic moment for Canadian football.
The World Cup knockout stage now enters a decisive phase, with traditional giants and emerging contenders battling for a place among the tournament’s final teams.
