Brazil Secures Round of 16 Spot with Comeback Win Over Japan; Dramatic 'Last-Minute' Goal

[Anchor]

Brazil, the nation with the most World Cup titles, has secured a spot in the Round of 16 after a dramatic comeback victory against Japan. Despite a strong performance, Japan once again failed to break its jinx of struggling in World Cup knockout stages.

Reported by Lee Sung-hoon.

[Reporter]

Japan, which defeated Brazil in a friendly match last year, took the initiative early in their World Cup clash.

After holding off Brazil's sharp attacks with a five-man defensive line, Sano intercepted the ball in midfield in the 29th minute of the first half. He dribbled forward alone and fired a surprise right-footed long-range shot to score the opening goal, sending Japanese fans into a frenzy.

Brazil regained control in the second half following tactical adjustments by head coach Ancelotti.

Moving away from short passes, they shook Japan's defensive wall with cross-oriented attacks that shifted the direction of play significantly. In the 11th minute of the second half, Casemiro connected with a cross from Magalhaes on the left with a header, leveling the score.

Brazil, who had been frustrated by a lack of luck in front of the goal despite creating numerous chances afterward, finally decided the match in second-half stoppage time, with the tournament's first extra time looming.

Guimaraes delivered a precise pass through the Japanese defense, and second-half substitute Martinelli scored a thrilling winning goal with a right-footed shot.

With this 2-1 comeback victory, Brazil advanced to the Round of 16, continuing their quest for a title 24 years after the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup.

Japan, despite playing an even match, was left in tears as they failed once again to break their tournament jinx, remaining winless in their last five World Cup knockout stage games.

Brazil will compete for a spot in the quarterfinals on July 6 against the winner of the match between Ivory Coast and Norway.

Video by Won Hyung-hee
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.