Brazil moved on to the last 16 of the World Cup on Monday after a thrilling 2-1 win against Japan. This match marked the start of the knockout rounds.
Arsenal striker Gabriel Martinelli was the star for Brazil in Houston. He scored the winning goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time at NRG Stadium.
Japan surprised many by taking the lead with a great goal from Kaishu Sano in the 29th minute. They scored while on a counter-attack.
Brazil seemed shocked by Japanβs goal. For the rest of the first half, Japan held on to their lead comfortably until halftime.
During the break, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti made a bold move. He replaced midfielder Lucas Paqueta with striker Endrick, which made Brazil look more dangerous right away.
Brazil equalized in the 56th minute. Casemiro scored with a header from a beautiful curling cross from Gabriel Magalhaes.
Japan fought hard and looked ready to take the match to extra time. But they made a mistake in injury time when Ao Tanaka lost the ball near the edge of the box. The ball went quickly to Martinelli, who took a touch and scored the winner.
Brazil now awaits the winner between Ivory Coast and Norway in the next round.
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