By Daily Review Online
Five-time champions Brazil staged a dramatic late comeback to defeat Japan 2-1 and book their place in the next round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Japan shocked Brazil by taking the lead and looked set for a famous victory as the match entered its closing stages. However, Brazil piled on the pressure in the final minutes, forcing the Asian side deep into their own half.
With six minutes of stoppage time added, Brazil continued to press relentlessly. Their persistence paid off in the 96th minute when Gabriel Martinelli struck a dramatic winner to complete the turnaround and send Brazilian fans into celebration.
Earlier in stoppage time, Brazil had pushed hard for an equaliser, with Vinícius Júnior testing Japan’s defence and Endrick creating dangerous opportunities. Japan defended resolutely for much of the second half but could not withstand the late onslaught.
The victory keeps Brazil’s hopes of a sixth World Cup title alive, while Japan’s impressive tournament run comes to an end after a spirited performance.
Japan took a surprise 1-0 lead over five-time champions Brazil at half-time in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash in Houston on Monday, thanks to a well-taken strike by Kaishu Sano.
Brazil dominated possession for much of the opening 45 minutes but struggled to break down a disciplined and well-organised Japanese defence. The South Americans created few clear-cut chances despite boasting attacking stars such as Vinicius Jr and Lucas Paqueta.
Japan remained patient throughout the first half, waiting for opportunities to counterattack. Their breakthrough came when Sano capitalised on a loose ball from Danilo before firing a powerful effort from outside the penalty area past Brazil goalkeeper Alisson.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among Japanese fans watching in Tokyo, while scenes of disappointment unfolded among Brazil supporters gathered in fan zones across Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti responded at the start of the second half by introducing teenage forward Endrick in place of the ineffective Paqueta, hoping the Real Madrid youngster could inject life into Brazil’s attack.
Japan, meanwhile, resumed the second half unchanged as they looked to protect their slender advantage against the tournament favourites. Brazil immediately pushed forward in search of an equaliser, with Endrick and Vinicius Jr combining in attack, but Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki remained alert to deny the South Americans.
With Brazil trailing 1-0 early in the second half, the five-time world champions faced an uphill task to avoid a stunning elimination at the hands of one of Asia’s strongest teams.