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Martinelli shoots Brazil past Japan in injury time to the eighth finals
Teams 30 June 2026

Martinelli shoots Brazil past Japan in injury time to the eighth finals

Gabriel Martinelli was the big man for Brazil with a goal in the 96th minute. With this he assured the South Americans of a place in the round of 16 of the World Cup, leaving Japan empty-handed despite an early lead.

Brazil has qualified for the round of 16 of the World Cup in spectacular fashion after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Japan. The big hero was Gabriel Martinelli, who scored the winning goal in the 96th minute. The Seleção had to give chase after Sano gave the Japanese an early lead.

![Image](https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/dFXsP19hl7rSLkPqvnevMA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyMDA7 aD02NzU7Y2Y9d2VicA--/https://media.zenfs.com/en/bbc_us_articles_995/ae3c0a72c089ca778f6975c0dff09ef5)

After Sano's early goal, Japan held out for a long time, but Brazil came alongside in the second half through a goal from Casemiro. In the final phase, coach Ancelotti's team pressed en masse, resulting in a thrilling final offensive. Ultimately, Martinelli freed the Brazilians with his goal in injury time.

With this victory, Brazil qualifies for the round of 16, where it will play Norway or Ivory Coast, depending on the other results. Japan leaves the tournament despite putting up a brave fight.

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