Brazilian midfielder Casemiro and forward Gabriel Martinelli scored as five-time champions Brazil defeated Japan 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 on Monday at Houston Stadium in Houston to advance to the last 16 after recovering from a halftime deficit.
Japan took a 29th-minute lead through K. Sano. Casemiro equalized in the 56th minute with a powerful header from a cross. Gabriel Martinelli scored the winner in the 90+6th minute. Brazil struggled in a difficult first half but dominated after halftime adjustments and substitutions, mounting a successful comeback.
Brazil finished first in Group C with seven points and a +6 goal difference. Japan advanced as runners-up from their group. The result extended Brazil’s strong knockout pedigree while ending Japan’s run despite a spirited performance.
Brazil will face the winner of the corresponding Round of 32 match in the Round of 16 on July 4.