Brazil secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, earning a spot in the Round of 16. Former Brazil star Ronaldinho congratulated the team on social media, praising their determined performance and head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
In a post on X, Ronaldinho wrote: "So happy about the qualification and for being up close living all this!!!!! Hard-fought win against a great opponent... Congrats to the Mister, all the players, and may everything keep going well."
Martinelli's Last-Minute Winner Seals Comeback
Gabriel Martinelli scored a 95th-minute winner as Brazil mounted a thrilling second-half comeback to defeat Japan 2-1 in Texas on June 29, 2026. Japan took a surprise lead in the first half when Kaishu Sano intercepted a loose ball, sprinted 40 yards, and fired past Alisson. Brazil struggled to break down Japan's defense until Gabriel Magalhaes curled a cross for Casemiro to head home the equalizer in the second half.
With extra time looming, Danilo won the ball in transition, found Endrick, who laid it off for Bruno Guimaraes. Guimaraes slid a perfect pass to Martinelli, who composed himself and slotted into the far corner to seal the win.
Brazil's World Cup History Against Japan
This was only the second World Cup meeting between Brazil and Japan. The first came in 2006, when Brazil won 4-1 after conceding an early goal. Overall, Brazil have won 12 of 15 meetings, with two draws and one loss—a 3-2 friendly defeat in Tokyo earlier in 2026.
Brazil will face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the Round of 16 on July 5 at New York New Jersey Stadium.
