It was absolute heartbreak for Japan, and pure ecstasy for Brazil after Gabriel Martinelli popped up in the 95th minute to send the Seleção into the FIFA World Cup 2026 last 16 on Monday night. Photo: Backpagepix
Substitute Gabriel Martinelli scored deep in injury time as Brazil beat a stubborn Japan 2-1 on Monday to roll into the Fifa World Cup last 16.
Arsenal winger Martinelli struck in the 95th minute in Houston to break Japanese hearts in the most dramatic fashion. The five-time champions will face either Ivory Coast or Norway in New Jersey on Sunday after edging a captivating knockout encounter.
Japan midfielder Kaishu Sano scored a classy solo goal after 29 minutes following a Brazil mistake to stun the huge numbers of fans decked out in yellow. Carlo Ancelotti's men hit back 11 minutes after half-time with a header from veteran Casemiro as Brazil dominated the second period.
Then up popped Martinelli right at the death to settle it and send the Brazil fans wild.
