Brazil secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan in the World Cup Round of 16, with Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli scoring a 96th-minute winner in Houston, according to Pulse Sports. Japan took a shock lead through Kaishu Asano after a counter-attack, punishing Brazil’s early dominance.
Casemiro equalised just before the hour mark, before Martinelli came off the bench in the 65th minute to deliver the decisive blow in stoppage time. Brazil, who topped Group C, advance to face either France or Sweden in the quarter-finals.
Key Points:
Brazil’s depth proved decisive with Martinelli making an immediate impact
Japan’s disciplined defensive strategy nearly delivered a major upset
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta’s faith in Martinelli appears validated
Brazil’s comeback keeps their World Cup title hopes alive
Japan exit with pride after an impressive tournament campaign
Brazil advance to face France or Sweden in the quarter-finals, while Japan depart with heads held high
Sources: Pulse Sports, Goal, SuperSport


