Martinelli’s last-gasp strike sends Brazil into World Cup last 16

Brazil snatch dramatic stoppage-time victory, Gabriel Martinelli struck deep into stoppage time to fire Brazil into the knockout stage of the World Cup with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Japan, Sport360NG reports. 

With the clock showing 96 minutes, Brazil capitalised on a costly turnover just outside Japan’s penalty area. Bruno Guimaraes quickly threaded a precise pass into Martinelli, who calmly controlled the ball before guiding his finish in off the post to complete a remarkable turnaround.

The late winner broke Japanese hearts after an impressive display that had threatened to produce one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.

Japan impress before Brazil respond

Japan were the better side during the opening period and deservedly took the lead after punishing a defensive mistake from the South Americans.

Danilo’s misplaced pass was seized upon by Kaishu Sano, who surged beyond Casemiro before firing a low effort into the bottom corner, leaving Brazil trailing at the interval.

Carlo Ancelotti’s men returned from the break with renewed intensity and found an equaliser 10 minutes into the second half. Casemiro rose highest to meet Gabriel‘s cross at the far post, powering his header beyond Zion Suzuki.

Martinelli seals victory after late Japanese error

Brazil almost completed the comeback moments later through a moment of brilliance from Vinicius Jr. The winger collected possession inside the Japanese half, nutmegged one defender, skipped beyond another and drove into the penalty area, only to see his curling effort brilliantly pushed onto the post by Suzuki.

Although Japan regained their composure and restricted Brazil’s attacking opportunities for much of the second half, the pressure finally told in the closing seconds.

Ao Tanaka lost possession near the edge of his own penalty area, allowing Brazil to launch one final attack. Guimaraes reacted instantly by picking out Martinelli, who kept his composure to slot home the decisive goal and secure Brazil’s place in the World Cup round of 16.