BRAZIL survived a major World Cup scare after Gabriel Martinelli scored deep into stoppage time to seal a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan, sending the five-time champions into the last 16 after an inspired Japanese performance had threatened a historic upset.
Martinelli bundled home from close range in the fifth minute of added time after being played through by Bruno Guimarães, completing Brazil's comeback after they had trailed for much of the contest.
The victory spared Carlo Ancelotti's side the embarrassment of becoming the first Brazilian team to lose a competitive match to Asian opposition and preserved their hopes of a sixth World Cup title.
Brazil will now meet either Norway or Ivory Coast in the round of 16 in New Jersey.
Japan had stunned the South American giants in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano capitalised on Brazil's sluggish defending to give his side a deserved lead, raising the prospect of one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history.
Brazil emerged with greater urgency after the interval and restored parity in the 56th minute when veteran midfielder Casemiro powered home a trademark header to ignite a sustained assault on the Japanese goal.
Despite relentless Brazilian pressure, Japan remained resilient as goalkeeper Zion Suzuki delivered an outstanding display, producing a series of fine saves to frustrate Vinícius Júnior and his teammates.
Suzuki appeared set to force extra time before Brazil finally broke through in the closing moments, with Martinelli applying the finishing touch after Guimarães unlocked Japan's defence.
While Brazil advanced, the performance exposed concerns over the squad's ageing profile.
With an average age approaching 30, this was one of the oldest Brazilian starting line-ups fielded at a World Cup in the modern era. Experienced campaigners including Casemiro, Alisson Becker, Danilo, Marquinhos and Douglas Santos all started, but Japan's speed and movement frequently unsettled the Seleção, particularly during the first half.
Although Ancelotti's experienced side ultimately prevailed, questions remain over whether Brazil possess the energy and athleticism required to challenge the tournament's strongest contenders in the latter stages.
Casemiro once again underlined his enduring importance, not only with the equalising goal but through his leadership in midfield. However, the 34-year-old's afternoon ended on a worrying note when he limped off late in the match with an apparent groin injury, casting doubt over his availability for the knockout round.
Vinícius Júnior endured another frustrating outing in Brazilian colours despite showing flashes of his brilliance.
The Real Madrid forward came close to producing one of the tournament's finest goals with a dazzling solo run in the second half, only for Suzuki to produce an exceptional fingertip save that pushed his shot onto the post.
Despite his explosive pace and creativity, Vinícius again struggled to convert his club form onto the international stage, leaving Martinelli to deliver the decisive contribution that ensured Brazil's World Cup campaign remains alive.
For Japan, the defeat was heartbreaking after a disciplined and courageous display brought them within seconds of eliminating one of football's traditional powerhouses. Their defensive organisation and Suzuki's heroics had frustrated Brazil for long periods before Martinelli's late intervention denied them a famous victory. - June 30, 2026
