Brazil advanced to the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan in the first round of the playoffs at NRG Stadium in Houston. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
Match Overview
Round of 32, June 29, 00:00, Houston, NRG
**BRAZIL – JAPAN 2:1 (0:1)**
Goals: Sano 29 (0:1), Casemiro 56 (1:1), Martinelli 90+6 (2:1)
Japan nearly pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. In the 29th minute, Kaishu Sano capitalized on a Brazilian turnover in midfield, dribbled to the edge of the box, and fired a low shot into the corner past Alisson. Before halftime, Hajime Moriyasu's team held firm under pressure and prevented Brazil from creating clear chances.
Second Half Changes
After the break, Carlo Ancelotti bolstered the attack by bringing on Endrick for Lucas Paquetá. Brazil became more aggressive and quickly pinned Japan back in their own box. First, Zion Suzuki saved Japan after a shot from Bruno Guimarães, then Takehiro Tomiyasu cleared the ball off the line following a Casemiro attempt, and soon after Vinícius hit the post.
Casemiro's Equalizer
In the 56th minute, Brazilian pressure finally paid off. Gabriel Magalhães delivered a cross to the far post, where Casemiro won the aerial duel and headed the ball into the net to level the score. Brazil continued to push for a winner, but the Japanese defense held firm and looked set to force extra time.
Martinelli's Winner
The decisive moment came in stoppage time. In the 90+6th minute, Gabriel Martinelli received a pass inside the box and calmly slotted the ball into the far corner. The goal secured Brazil's victory and a place in the next round.
Next Round
In the Round of 16, Brazil will face the winner of the Ivory Coast vs. Norway match.
Two more Round of 32 matches will be played tonight. Germany takes on Paraguay, while the Netherlands faces Morocco. The full schedule of Round of 32 matches is available here.
Earlier, Canada secured a spot in the Round of 16 by defeating South Africa 1-0.