Brazil’s national team defeated Japan 2–1 in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing their place in the quarterfinals of the competition. Brazil’s goals were scored by Casemiro and Gabriel Martinelli.
Brazil, the most decorated team in World Cup history with five titles, was on the brink of an early exit from the tournament. Japan opened the scoring in the 29th minute of the first half after Danilo made an error in possession, allowing Kaishu Sano to find the net. Sano finished with a precise low strike to beat Alisson, and Japan went into halftime leading 1–0.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti kept his starting lineup unchanged at the beginning of the second half and, contrary to expectations, did not substitute Casemiro. The decision paid off in the 56th minute when Casemiro equalized with a header, bringing the Seleção level.
After the equalizer, Brazil intensified their attacks and repeatedly threatened Japan’s goal, but the defense and goalkeeper held firm. Ancelotti introduced Gabriel Martinelli in the 66th minute a substitution that proved decisive in the closing stages. Martinelli scored the winner from a Bruno Guimarães assist, putting Brazil ahead.
Japan, pushing for an equalizer to force extra time, were unable to respond after conceding late in the match. As a result, Brazil secured a 2–1 victory over Japan and advanced to the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
