Brazil became the second team to qualify for the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Japan in the Round of 32.
Casemiro and Gabriel Martinelli took turns shining to bring victory to the South American representatives.
On the Houston pitch, Japan pulled off a surprise by scoring the opening goal in the 29th minute with a spectacular long-range shot from Kaishu Sano.
In the second half, Brazil mounted a strong comeback, and their efforts were rewarded with a 1-1 equalizer from Casemiro in the 56th minute.
Casemiro's goal allowed the Brazilian players to play more comfortably, continuing to increase the pressure and create more dangerous opportunities towards Japan's goal.
The match seemed destined for extra time, but Brazil unexpectedly scored in the 90+5th minute through Gabriel Martinelli, securing their dramatic qualification to the next round.
Having advanced to the round of 16, Carlo Ancelotti's team will face the winner of the Cote d'Ivoire-Norway match next.
90'+11: Full time! Brazil come from behind to beat Japan 2-1 and qualify for the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup .
90'+5: Gabriel Martinelli scores the crucial goal to give Brazil a 2-1 lead.
90': The second half has 6 minutes of added time.