Brazil advance to the World Cup Round of 16 after beating Japan 2-1 in a Round of 32 match in Houston, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring a late winner in stoppage time. Japan take the lead in the first half through Kaishu Sano, who scores at 29 minutes. Brazil respond after the break, with Casemiro equalising shortly before the hour as the match swings toward the South American side. Multiple reports describe a late push from Brazil and a period of pressure on Japan’s defensive shape. Martinelli, brought on as a substitute, then completes the comeback by firing in deep stoppage time—reported as the 95th or 96th minute—sending Brazil into the tournament’s last-16 stage. Several outlets also highlight the dramatic timing of the decisive goal, described as exceptionally late for a winning knockout match at the World Cup. With the result, Brazil qualify for the next round and are set to face the winner of the match between Norway and Ivory Coast, while Japan are eliminated.