Late Martinelli Strike Seals Brazil’s Comeback Against Japan to Reach World Cup Last 16

Gabriel Martinelli came off the bench to fire Brazil past Japan in stoppage time as they secured a 2-1 victory in their last-32 clash at the 2026 World Cup. Selecao fell behind early when Kaishu Sano’s first-half strike left them staring at a shock exit. Casemiro restored parity after the break with a powerful header from a Gabriel cross. In added time, Martinelli’s deflected effort beat Japan keeper Zion Suzuki and rolled in to spark wild celebrations among the Brazil fans in Houston. Japan remain without a knockout-stage win at the World Cup.

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