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Gabriel Martinelli struck deep into stoppage time to seal a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory for Brazil over Japan, sending the five time world champions into the FIFA World Cup last 16 where they will face either Norway or Ivory Coast.
With the match heading towards extra time, Brazil capitalised on a costly mistake near Japan's penalty area. Bruno Guimaraes recovered possession before threading a pass to Martinelli, who calmly took a touch and guided his shot in off the post in the 95th minute to spark wild celebrations.
Japan had looked capable of causing a major upset after producing an impressive first half display. Hajime Moriyasu's side defended with discipline, frustrated Brazil's attack and took the lead after Danilo misplaced a pass. Kaishu Sano seized the opportunity, drove past Casemiro and fired a low strike into the bottom corner.
Brazil struggled to create meaningful chances before the interval, but Carlo Ancelotti's tactical adjustments transformed the contest after the break.
Just 10 minutes into the second half, Gabriel delivered a cross to the back post where Casemiro rose highest to head home the equaliser. The goal shifted momentum firmly in Brazil's favour.
Moments later, Vinicius Junior nearly produced one of the goals of the tournament. Picking up possession inside Japan's half, he nutmegged one defender, skipped past another and aimed for the far corner, only for goalkeeper Zion Suzuki to produce a superb save that pushed the effort onto the post.
Despite Brazil's growing dominance, Japan remained organised and continued to limit clear opportunities. Defender Takehiro Tomiyasu also made a crucial goal line clearance to deny Casemiro a second goal.
Ancelotti's decision to introduce Endrick and encourage more crosses into the penalty area proved effective. Brazil repeatedly tested Japan's defence from wide positions, delivering 28 crosses during the second half while targeting runners at the far post.
Japan appeared to have weathered the pressure and looked set to force extra time. However, Ao Tanaka lost possession near his own box in the closing moments, allowing Brazil one final opportunity.
Guimaraes quickly found Martinelli, who kept his composure to score the decisive goal and send Brazil through to the next round.
For Japan, the defeat was heartbreaking after an outstanding defensive performance. Despite pushing one of the tournament favourites to the limit, their search for a first World Cup knockout stage victory continues.
