Brazil 2-1 Japan World Cup 2026: Brazil Rallies Past Japan 2-1 With Stoppage-Time Winner to Reach World Cup Last 16

HOUSTON, June 29, 2026 (AP) — Brazil scored twice in the second half, including a stoppage-time winner by Gabriel Martinelli, to defeat Japan 2-1 in a FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match on Monday and secure a place in the tournament’s last 16.

Japan took the lead in the 29th minute through Kaishu Sano after capitalizing on a Brazilian mistake in midfield. The midfielder’s strike, his first international goal, gave Japan a halftime advantage despite Brazil controlling much of the possession during the opening period.

Brazil increased the pressure after the break and found an equalizer when Casemiro headed home from a cross into the penalty area. The goal shifted momentum toward the five-time world champions as they continued to press against Japan’s organized defensive setup.

With the match appearing destined for extra time, Martinelli delivered the decisive moment deep into stoppage time. The forward finished a late attack with a low shot that found the net in the 95th minute, sealing a dramatic victory for Brazil.

Japan produced a disciplined defensive performance throughout much of the contest, frustrating Brazil despite facing sustained pressure. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made several important interventions, while Brazil also struck the woodwork during its search for a winner.

Brazil dominated possession and created the majority of scoring opportunities but struggled to convert its chances for long stretches of the match. Japan remained compact defensively and threatened on counterattacks after taking the first-half lead.

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti kept the same starting lineup that earned a 3-0 victory over Scotland in the team’s final group-stage match. Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu made four changes and deployed a five-man defensive line in an effort to contain Brazil’s attack.

Neymar began the match on the bench as he continued his return from injury, while Vinicius Jr. remained one of Brazil’s primary attacking threats throughout the game. Casemiro, who scored Brazil’s equalizer, later left the field with an apparent groin issue, according to match reports.

The match drew a crowd of 68,777 at Houston Stadium, where supporters from both nations created a vibrant atmosphere for one of the standout fixtures of the Round of 32. Brazil’s comeback preserved its bid for a sixth FIFA World Cup title, while Japan exited the tournament after a competitive performance against one of international football’s most successful teams.

Brazil entered the knockout stage after finishing first in Group C, while Japan advanced as the runner-up in Group F. The meeting marked the teams’ first World Cup encounter since 2006 and followed Japan’s victory over Brazil in an international friendly in 2025, adding further significance to the matchup.