Gabriel Martinelli’s 96th-minute strike rescued Brazil from a stunning upset, completing a 2-1 comeback win over Japan to seal their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
Brazil are through, but only just. The five-time champions survived a major scare before substitute Gabriel Martinelli fired home in the 96th minute to seal a 2-1 comeback win over Japan in Houston.
Japan drew first blood when Kaishu Sano capitalised on a Brazilian defensive error to fire home in the 29th minute. Brazil hit back after the break as Casemiro headed in the equaliser on 56 minutes, and the Seleção piled on relentless pressure from there.
Extra time seemed certain before Martinelli latched onto Bruno Guimaraes’ pass and settled the tie in dramatic fashion. Sky Sports reports Brazil will face either Norway or Ivory Coast in the Round of 16.
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