Gabriel Martinelli scores late in injury time to help Brazil beat Japan 2-1 at World Cup

Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic winning goal in injury time to secure a 2-1 victory for Brazil over Japan in the World Cup round of 32 on Monday in Houston. Japan had taken the lead in the 29th minute through Kaishu Sano, but Casemiro equalized for Brazil with a header in the 56th minute. Martinelli, a second-half substitute, scored in the sixth minute of stoppage time, preventing the match from going to extra time. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti praised Martinelli's intensity and effectiveness as a substitute. Brazil will advance to face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the round of 16.

Gabriel Martinelli scored a decisive goal in stoppage time, securing a 2-1 victory for Brazil over Japan in the World Cup round of 32 in Houston. The win propels the five-time champions into the tournament's last 16. Japan had taken the lead in the 29th minute through Kaishu Sano, but Casemiro equalized for Brazil with a header in the 56th minute. Martinelli's late strike, in the sixth minute of injury time, broke Japanese hearts as the match appeared headed for extra time. Brazil will now face either Ivory Coast or Norway in their next match. This marks another World Cup knockout stage exit for Japan, who have never won such a match.