96th-minute winner! Martinelli wins it late for Brazil against Japan

HOUSTON: Brazil advanced to the last-16 of the FIFA World Cup after overcoming the Japanese challenge. After trailing by one goal in the first half of the Round of 32, Brazil came back to seal the match with two goals in the second half. Gabriel Martinelli (90+6) scored the winning goal for Brazil in injury time. Earlier, Japan took the lead through Kaishu Sano. Casemiro equalised for Brazil, as the side looked rejuvenated in the second half of the game.

Brazil dominated the game from the start, but Japan made sly counterattacks, giving headaches for the Seleçãos. In a reversal of fortunes, Kaishu Sano surprised Brazil in the 29th minute by making a run from the midfield and firing a low shot from just outside the box into the bottom corner, leaving Brazil goalkeeper Allison nonplussed. Brazil's attempts to counterattack were unsuccessful in the first half.

Brazil's cross-play from both wings in the second half to break down Japan's strong defence paid off. After creating several scoring opportunities, Brazil equalised in the 56th minute through veteran Casemiro.

Casemiro headed home a close-range header from Gabriel dos Santos Magalhães' cross from the left wing. As Brazil continued to attack, Japan started to show fatigue. With the game expected to go into extra time, Gabriel Martinelli, who came on as a substitute in the second half, sealed Brazil's victory with a magnificent goal.

Brazil's opponent in the pre-quarterfinals will be the winner of today's Norway-Ivory Coast match.