Brazil 2-1 Japan — World Cup

World Cup
Brazil
2
Final
1
Japan
Full time

For 94 minutes, Japan had Brazil on the absolute brink of their worst World Cup disaster in 36 years.

Gabriel Martinelli's 95th-minute winner completed a dramatic comeback to send Brazil into the Round of 16 and deny Japan a historic breakthrough.

Japan dominated the first half in Houston. bypassed to open the scoring after 29 minutes. Brazil looked sluggish and vulnerable to Japan's quick transitions. But changed the game at halftime by bringing on . Brazil shifted to a direct, cross-heavy style and seized control of the ball. Casemiro made amends in the 56th minute, heading home the equalizer from a Gabriel cross. Japan defended heroically as Brazil pushed for a winner. Just as extra time loomed, found in the 95th minute. Martinelli finished calmly to send Brazil to the Round of 16 and end Japan's dream.

— and get this
Japan has still never won a World Cup knockout match. This defeat makes them 0-5 all-time in knockout games.
Brazil remains flawless against Asian opposition at the World Cup, extending their perfect record to five wins in five matches.
Despite the heartbreak, 25-year-old midfielder scored his first-ever international goal for Japan on his 16th cap.
Brazil keeps their 36-year streak alive. They have reached at least the Round of 16 in every single World Cup since 1994.