World Cup 2026: Brazil seal Last-16 spot as Martinelli scores dramatic stoppage-time goal

Brazil made it to the round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup following Gabriel Martinelli’s stunning last-minute goal as they came back from behind to beat Japan 2-1 in their round of 32 match in Houston.

The South Americans were caught off guard in the 29th minute when Japan scored the opening goal courtesy of Koki Sano despite having had an impressive first half display. Brazil struggled to get their act together in the first half and entered the halftime break losing despite having most of the possession.

Dorival Júnior’s men regrouped well in the second half and finally leveled the scores in the 56th minute through their veteran midfielder Casemiro. The Manchester United man scored with a header from Danilo’s cross to reignite Brazil’s dream of progressing to the knockout stage of the tournament.

Japan played tough defensive soccer and seemed set to take the game to extra time since they were frustrating Brazil’s star forwards.

But deep into added time, it was Gabriel Martinelli who provided the crucial goal. The Brazilian winger found himself on the receiving end of Bruno Guimarães’ cross before slotting the ball into the back of the net in the fifth minute of additional time to seal a spectacular fightback by Brazil.

This win ensures that Brazil still have their sights set on winning a sixth World Cup title, as they showed their resolve in bouncing back from an initial setback against the well-organized Japanese team.

It was a heart-wrenching conclusion for Japan after such an impressive run in the competition, as they narrowly missed out in clinching an iconic upset at the very last moment.

For Brazil, this win means that they can now shift focus towards the next round, as they will be up against either Ivory Coast or Norway in the Round of 16.