Martinelli’s stoppage-time goal lifts Brazil past Japan at World Cup

Brazil advanced to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday after Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to beat Japan 2-1 at NRG Stadium in Houston. The five-time world champions were pushed to the brink by a determined Japanese side before escaping with the latest goal in normal time to win a World Cup match, according to ESPN.espn+1

Japan Stuns Brazil Before Late Heartbreak

Kaishu Sano gave Japan a first-half lead, raising the prospect of one of the tournament's great upsets. Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil struggled to break down a disciplined Japanese defense until Casemiro headed home an equalizer in the 56th minute. With six minutes of stoppage time added, Japan held firm at 1-1 and appeared on course for extra time before Martinelli struck to send the South Americans through.newsonjapan+2

A Rematch Charged With History

The matchup carried added intrigue after Japan claimed their first-ever victory over Brazil in October 2025, a 3-2 comeback win in a friendly at Tokyo Stadium. That result, which snapped an 11-win streak for Brazil across 13 previous meetings, gave Japan confidence heading into Monday's knockout clash. Brazil entered as favorites with moneyline odds around -130 to -150 across major sportsbooks, while prediction markets on Kalshi and Polymarket offered Brazil roughly a 73-74% implied probability to advance.actionnetwork+6

Brazil's World Cup Quest Continues

Brazil, winners of Group C with seven points from three matches, now move into the Round of 16 as they chase a record-extending sixth World Cup title. Japan, who finished second in Group F after navigating the group stage unbeaten, exit the tournament despite a performance that will enhance their growing reputation on the world stage. The match was broadcast live on FOX and Telemundo to audiences across the United States.independent+3