Martinelli’s Late Goal Sends Brazil Past Japan
Dragon Media Correspondent
Kathmandu. Five-time world champions Brazil defeated Japan 2–1 in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup, securing their place in the last 16.
In a highly competitive match, Japan took the lead in the first half. Kaishu Sano scored in the 29th minute to give Japan a sensational advantage. With strong organization, a disciplined defensive line and sharp counterattacks, Japan kept Brazil under pressure in the first half.
Brazil, however, fought back after the interval. Casemiro scored in the 55th minute to bring the match level. The game remained tightly contested, but the decisive moment came in injury time. Gabriel Martinelli scored in the 90+6th minute to seal the victory for Brazil.
With the win, Carlo Ancelotti’s side advanced to the last 16, while Japan exited the tournament despite a strong performance.
Before the match, Japan had claimed that it had become more mature and competitive than before. Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu had said that while Brazil had been a difficult opponent in the past, the level of Japanese football had improved significantly. In October 2025, Japan came from two goals down to defeat Brazil 3–2 in a friendly match, a result that had boosted the team’s confidence.
But the World Cup knockout stage proved different from a friendly match. Japan performed strongly in the first half, but Brazil’s experience, bench strength and ability to score at decisive moments turned the result around.
Brazil had reached the knockout stage as group winners, while Japan advanced to the Round of 32 as runners-up of Group F. Japan has never reached the World Cup quarterfinals, and that dream remained unfulfilled this time as well.
Historically, Brazil has held a clear advantage in meetings with Japan. However, Japan’s steady improvement in recent years made this encounter highly interesting. Despite the defeat, Japan’s courage, discipline and competitive display against Brazil reflected the rising standard of Asian football.
For Brazil, this victory was not only about reaching the next round. It also showed the team’s mental strength under pressure and the influence of experienced players in decisive moments.
