Gabriel Martinelli's goal in the 96th minute snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory for Brazil against Japan in the World Cup Round of 32 on Monday, advancing the five-time champions to the next stage.
Japan struck first in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano capitalized on a Brazilian mistake near midfield, intercepting a pass and scoring with a right-footed shot from just outside the box. The Japanese team had finished second in Group F, with draws against the Netherlands and Sweden, and a 4-0 win over Tunisia.
Brazil controlled play in the second half, and the equalizer came in the 39th minute when Casemiro headed in a ball from Gabriel Magalhães inside the box, beating Japan's goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
Shortly after Casemiro's goal, Vinícius Júnior nearly gave Brazil the lead in the 58th minute, but his shot hit the far post. Martinelli, who entered the match in the second half, ultimately provided the breakthrough.
Brazil will face the winner of the Ivory Coast-Norway match in the Round of 16. Japan's loss means they still seek their first World Cup knockout-stage victory.