In a dramatic round of 16 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Brazil defeated Japan 2-1 thanks to a stoppage-time goal from Gabriel Martinelli. The match, played on June 30, 2026, saw Brazil advance to the quarterfinals after a tense encounter.
Japan took an early lead through a goal from Ritsu Doan in the 12th minute. Brazil equalized in the 38th minute with a strike from Vinícius Júnior. The game remained level until the 90+4th minute, when Martinelli scored the winner from close range after a cross from Danilo.
Brazil will face the winner of the match between Argentina and Mexico in the quarterfinals. Japan's elimination marks a disappointing end to a tournament where they had shown promise in the group stage.
