Brazil secured a place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging Japan 2-1 on Monday, thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time winner from Gabriel Martinelli.

Japan stunned the five-time world champions by taking the lead in the 29th minute through Kaishu Sano, capitalizing on a Brazilian defensive error. Casemiro equalized in the 56th minute with a header from Gabriel’s cross.

As the match appeared destined for extra time, Martinelli scored from close range in the fifth minute of stoppage time to send Brazil through.

Brazil will now face the winner of the Round of 32 clash between Côte d’Ivoire and Norway in the Round of 16.