馃嚦馃嚘NamibiaSouthern Africa
Martinelli's late goal sends Brazil into World Cup last 16 after 2-1 win over Japan
via The Namibian3 min read
Substitute Gabriel Martinelli scored in the 95th minute to secure a 2-1 victory for Brazil against Japan, propelling them into the World Cup last 16. The match, played in Houston, saw Japan take a surprising lead in the 29th minute with a solo goal from midfielder Kaishu Sano after a Brazil error. Brazil, five-time champions, equalized 11 minutes after halftime with a header from veteran Casemiro. The second half was dominated by Brazil, who pushed for a winner, eventually finding it through Martinelli's dramatic late strike. Brazil will now face either Ivory Coast or Norway in New Jersey. Japan, despite a strong performance, has never won a knockout game at the World Cup. Neymar was on the bench for Brazil, and Carlo Ancelotti's side faced a resilient Japanese team that had previously beaten Brazil in a friendly.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
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