Brazil survived a World Cup last-32 scare when they fought back to beat Japan 2-1 after Gabriel Martinelli squeezed in a shot at the far post deep in stoppage time on Monday.
The match at Houston’s NRG Stadium produced an entertaining contest, with Japan pushing Brazil throughout the knockout encounter.
Brazil, who will next face Norway or Ivory Coast in New Jersey on Sunday, improved after the break with Japan taking an early lead and shackling the attack of the five-times champions for much of the opening period.
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Japan’s Kaishu Sano stunned Brazil after 29 minutes when he intercepted Danilo’s misplaced pass before driving toward goal and rifling a shot past goalkeeper Alisson Becker to send the outnumbered Samurai Blue fans into delirium.
Japan put on a first-half defensive masterclass as they sucked up pressure with defenders flying around the pitch, breaking up passes and closing down space any time a Brazilian player had the ball.
Brazil dominated possession afterwards but struggled to break Japan’s disciplined defensive shape before half-time.
Vinícius Júnior threatened repeatedly, but Japan’s compact backline prevented Brazil from creating clear openings.
The South Americans returned strongly after the interval, increasing pressure on Japan’s defence.
Their persistence paid off in the 55th minute when Casemiro headed in Brazil’s equaliser.
The midfielder connected with Gabriel’s delivery, restoring hope for Brazil after Japan’s impressive first-half display.
Japan continued fighting, with their counter-attacks causing problems for Brazil’s defenders late in the match.
Brazil introduced Gabriel Martinelli, whose impact eventually changed the outcome of the thrilling contest.
Martinelli’s winner in the 95th minute came at the end of a tense match and was the latest winning goal in normal time of a World Cup knockout game since 1966.
Brazil players and staff hugged each other on the pitch after the match as the Japanese players watched on in disbelief.
“I can’t explain how I feel,” Martinelli said. “It’ll only really sink in a while. Thank God I managed to score the goal today. I’m so happy for the team, who gave it their all. I’m lost for words.”
Japan left the tournament with credit after pushing Brazil to the limit with a courageous performance.
Brazil now advances after surviving a major test from a technically gifted Japanese side.
