Brazil advance to the World Cup last 16 after a 2-1 win over Japan in a last-32 match. Brazil looked set for extra time before Gabriel Martinelli scored a decisive goal in stoppage time. The winner comes at the far post, as Martinelli converts late to secure victory with a 95th-minute strike.
Across reports, the match is described as a scare for Brazil, who fight back to avoid elimination. The result puts Brazil into the next round, with their last-16 opponent to be determined by the outcome of the Norway vs Ivory Coast match. One report states Brazil will play in New Jersey on July 5, while others focus on the timing and impact of Martinelli’s late goal.
Brazil’s progression is therefore tied to their late-game performance, with Martinelli singled out for scoring after Japan appeared to be holding firm for a longer contest. Brazil will now prepare for the winner between Norway and Ivory Coast.
