Brazil secured a dramatic place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup after Gabriel Martinelli scored a stoppage-time winner to seal a thrilling 2-1 victory over Japan.
Japan took a surprise lead in the 28th minute when Sano K. unleashed a powerful strike from outside the penalty area that left the Brazilian goalkeeper with no chance.
The five-time world champions responded after the break, with veteran midfielder Casemiro rising highest to head home the equaliser in the 56th minute and restore parity.
READ ALSO: Arteta praises Gabriel Martinelli after Arsenal’s defeat to Manchester United
As the match appeared destined for extra time, Martinelli produced the decisive moment deep into stoppage time.
The Arsenal forward fired home from inside the 18-yard box in the 90+5th minute to complete Brazil’s comeback and book their place in the Round of 16.
The dramatic defeat brought Japan’s World Cup campaign to a heartbreaking end, while Brazil advanced to the next stage with a hard-fought victory.
