NewzVille Desk
Brazil is through to the last 16 of the World Cup after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan in Houston.
Gabriel Martinelli scored deep into stoppage time to seal the win, ending Japan’s hopes after they had come within moments of appearing to force extra time.
Japan stunned the five-time world champions in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano finished off a superb counter-attack to give his side a 1-0 lead. Brazil struggled to respond before halftime, with Japan comfortably protecting their advantage going into the break.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti made a bold change at halftime, bringing on striker Endrick in place of midfielder Lucas Paqueta. Brazil equalised in the 56th minute when Casemiro headed in Gabriel Magalhaes’ curling cross at the far post.
Japan looked set to force extra time, but in stoppage time Ao Tanaka lost possession on the edge of the penalty area before scoring the winning goal in the 5th minute of added time.
Brazil will now face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the Round of 16.
