"I can’t explain how I feel," said Gabriel Martinelli after scoring the 95th-minute winner.
Brazil's Gabriel Martinelli scores their second goal, Houston Stadium, Houston, Texas, US, Jun 29 2026. (Photo: REUTERS/Pedro Nunes)
30 Jun 2026 03:12AM
(Updated: 30 Jun 2026 07:14AM)
HOUSTON: Brazil survived a World Cup last-32 scare when they fought back to beat Japan 2-1 after Gabriel Martinelli squeezed in a shot at the far post deep in stoppage time on Monday (Jun 29).Brazil, who will next face Norway or Ivory Coast in New Jersey on Sunday, improved after the break with Japan taking an early lead and shackling the attack of the five-time champions for much of the opening period.Martinelli’s winner in the 95th minute came at the end of a tense match and was the latest winning goal in normal time of a World Cup knockout game since 1966. Brazil players and staff hugged each other on the pitch after the match as the Japanese players watched on in disbelief."I can’t explain how I feel," Martinelli said. "It'll only really sink in a while. Thank God I managed to score the goal today. I’m so happy for the team, who gave it their all. I’m lost for words."
