Brazil Edge Past Japan 2-1 to Storm into FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16

Houston, June 29: Five-time world champions Brazil booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Japan in a thrilling Round of 32 encounter.

Japan’s  Kaishu Sano put the Samurai Blue ahead in the first half with a superb solo effort and stunned Brazil by taking the lead and defended resolutely for long periods. But the South American giants Brazil responded with determination as Casemiro headed home from a Gabriel cross to get the five-time winners level.

Brazil equalized before substitute Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner, sealing a memorable comeback victory.

The victory keeps Brazil’s dream of a record sixth FIFA World Cup title alive. They will now face the winner of Ivory Coast vs Norway in the Round of 16.

Match Result:
Brazil 2-1 Japan
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 – Round of 32
Venue: Houston Stadium, Houston