Brazil's Historic Comeback Against Japan
Brazil secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan in their Round of 32 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Houston, marking the first time since 1978 that the five-time champions won a knockout match after trailing at halftime. Kaishu Sano put Japan ahead in the 29th minute, but goals from Casemiro (56th minute) and Gabriel Martinelli (90+6th minute) completed the comeback.
Casemiro's Milestone Goal
According to Opta Analyst, Casemiro, aged 34 years and 126 days, became the second-oldest goal-scorer for Brazil in World Cup history. Only Bebeto, who scored against Denmark in 1998 at 34 years and 137 days, is older. Casemiro's header from a Gabriel Magalhaes cross leveled the match at 1-1.
Bruno Guimaraes Closing in on Pele's Record
Bruno Guimaraes provided his fourth assist of the tournament, setting up Martinelli's winner. As per Opta Analyst, only Pele in the 1970 World Cup recorded more assists for Brazil, with Guimaraes slowly inching towards the Brazil icon's numbers.
Match Details
Japan stunned Brazil in the first half when Kaishu Sano intercepted a loose ball, sprinted 40 yards, and drilled a fierce strike past Alisson. After a frustrating first half, Brazil intensified pressure. Gabriel Magalhaes curled a precise cross to the back post, allowing Casemiro to head home. With the match heading for extra time, Danilo won the ball in transition, found Endrick, who laid it off for Guimaraes. He slid a perfect pass to an unmarked Martinelli, who slotted into the far corner to seal the 2-1 victory.
Brazil's Next Opponent
Brazil advances to the Round of 16, where they will face either Ivory Coast or Norway on July 5 at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Historical Context: Brazil vs Japan in World Cups
This was only the second World Cup meeting between Brazil and Japan. The first was in 2006 in Germany, where Japan also took a surprise lead via Keiji Tamada in the 34th minute. Brazil stormed back with a brace from Ronaldo and goals from Juninho Pernambucano and Gilberto to win 4-1.
