Brazil defeats Japan 2-1 to reach World Cup 2026 last‑16

In the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 32, Brazil beat Japan 2‑1 to advance to the tournament's last‑16 stage. Japan took an early lead in the 29th minute through a strike by Sano, but Brazil responded with a header from Casemiro at the 56th minute to level the score. Late in injury time, Gabriel Martinelli scored the winning goal, securing Brazil's progression.

Brazil's coach Carlo Ancelotti made tactical adjustments at halftime that shifted the match's momentum, while Japan struggled to regain composure after the equaliser. The result eliminates Japan from the competition, ending their campaign after a strong showing in the group stage.