Gabriel Martinelli struck five minutes into stoppage time to give Brazil a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan in Houston, salvaging what looked like a potential World Cup disaster. Kaishu Sano's 29th-minute opener had stunned the five-time champions and put Japan on course for their first-ever knockout win against South American opposition.

Casemiro's powerful header in the 56th minute restored parity and set up a relentless Brazilian assault on Japan's goal. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made several crucial saves to keep his team level, but Martinelli pounced from close range in the dying moments to send the Seleção through to the round of 16. The win came at a cost as Casemiro limped off late with a groin injury, casting doubt over his availability for the next match.

Brazil's aging squad showed their experience mattered, but also exposed worrying vulnerabilities. With Casemiro (34), Alisson (33), and several other thirtysomethings in the starting XI, Ancelotti's team averaged 29 years and 245 days - among the oldest in tournament history. Vinícius Júnior struggled again for his country, managing just 13 goals in 53 appearances despite his Real Madrid heroics.

Japan's familiar knockout curse continues, failing to advance past the first hurdle for the fifth consecutive World Cup. Their tactical discipline impressed for 45 minutes, but the mental barrier in high-stakes matches remains insurmountable. Brazil advances to face the winner of Norway versus Ivory Coast, but questions linger about whether this veteran squad can handle elite opposition in the latter stages.