Brazil came very close to elimination, but remains alive in this World Cup. Trailing Japan for part of the match, the Seleção turned the game around and won 2-1 thanks to a goal from Gabriel Martinelli in stoppage time.
Japan punishes Brazil in the first half
The match began tensely. Brazil tried to establish their game, but Japan remained compact, disciplined, and dangerous whenever they could launch an attack. The Japanese didn't just defend; they attacked the spaces and forced the Brazilian defense to remain under pressure. In the 29th minute, Kaishu Sano opened the scoring. Japan took the lead and put the Seleção in a very uncomfortable position. Brazil found themselves trailing 1-0 in a knockout match. This goal changed the tone of the game. Japan gained confidence, defended with more assurance, and forced Brazil to chase the game. The Seleção tried to respond but lacked precision in the final pass or shot. At halftime, Japan led, and Brazil were in danger.
Casemiro puts the Seleção back in the game
After the break, Brazil returned with renewed intensity. The Seleção accelerated, pressed higher up the pitch, and sought to establish a greater presence in the Japanese penalty area. The equalizer came through Casemiro. The Brazilian midfielder headed home to level the score at 1-1. This goal revitalized Brazil, allowing them to avoid the trap of a tight match and regain momentum. From then on, the game shifted into a different rhythm. Japan continued to defend diligently, but Brazil pressed on. The Seleção launched attack after attack, searching for openings and attempting to break down the Japanese defense.
Brazil pushes forward, Japan resists
In the final minutes, Brazil increased the pressure. Carlo Ancelotti's players spent more time in the Japanese half, searching for the winning goal before a potential extra time. Japan retreated, but didn't break immediately. Zion Suzuki and his defense held firm, repelling several attacks and keeping the score at 1-1. Brazil pressed forward, but time was running out. The match seemed destined for a longer duration. Japan held on for the result.
Martinelli appeared in the 90th+5th minute
Relief finally came for Brazil in stoppage time. In the 95th minute, Bruno Guimarães found Gabriel Martinelli with a perfectly weighted low pass. The Brazilian striker controlled the ball, positioned himself, and fired a right-footed shot into the back of the net, with the help of the post. Brazil took a 2-1 lead in stoppage time. Martinelli's goal sent the Seleção into raptures, sending the Brazilian defense into raptures.
Brazil qualified for the round of 16 after a hard-fought match, won in the final seconds. Japan exited the competition after having long believed they could pull off an upset.
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