Brazil beat Japan 2-1 in a World Cup round-of-32 match, scoring a late goal to end Japan’s run. Reports describe a closely contested game in which Japan stays competitive until the final minutes, but a decisive strike from Brazil in injury time breaks the deadlock. The result eliminates Japan from the tournament and extends a pattern noted by multiple outlets: Japan has had the lead in the knockout round for a third consecutive World Cup and then loses. The match is characterized by drama in the closing stages, with Japan unable to hold the advantage and Brazil finishing strongly to secure the win. The loss sends Japan out in the round of 32, while Brazil advances to the next stage of the tournament.