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Gabriel Martinelli scored a stoppage-time winner for Brazil to beat Japan 2-1 in the round of 32 at the World Cup on Monday.
Heading into the match, Brazil had been eliminated in four of their previous six FIFA World Cup knockout matches – more than in their preceding 17 combined, when they were knocked out only three times.
The South Americans had also not been eliminated in the first knockout round of a World Cup since a 1-0 defeat to Argentina in the Round of 16 at the 1990 World Cup.
On their part, Japan entered the match full of confidence after finishing second in Group F to qualify for the Round of 32. They opened their campaign with a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands, followed that with an impressive 4-0 victory over Tunisia, before securing qualification with a 1-1 draw against Sweden.
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In the clash with Brazil, Japan opened the scoring in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano intercepted a pass in midfield, drove towards goal and hit a low shot past Ederson.
Brazil drew level in the 56th minute when Casemiro rose highest to head home Gabriel Magalhães’ inviting cross into the far corner.
Then in the sixth minute of added time, substitute Martinelli latched onto an opening inside the penalty area and calmly guided his finish into the bottom corner to complete Brazil’s remarkable comeback.
2 Comments
Japan, why na?
Why did you have to do a Nigeria?
It’s Nigeria that normally concedes last minute goals in crucial matches. Today, Japan decided to imitate us.
The game was 1-1, and was heading to extra time, and then Japan had a Nigeria style momentary lapse in concentration. At this level, all it takes is a moment. Bruno found Martinelli in the box, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Everywhere don red for Samurai Blue. Farewell, Japan. Fare thee well!
Japan are an emerging force in international football. The only shortcoming they have is inability to maintain momentum and sustain tempo for 90 minutes which, I think, has to do with their physicality disadvantage.
If, in time, they are able to address this shortcoming so that they can end matches the way the started, Japan will be unstoppable!
Their individual technique is polished and the team methods are super refined. But, Japan soon run out of steam for other physically imposing opponents (who themselves are highly skilled) to take control later on in games.
It happened against Belgium in 2018 round of 16 where they lost 3:2 after racing to a 2:0 lead in the round of 16.
In 2022, they led 1:0 against Croatia in the round of 16, only to lose the lead and ultimately lose 1:3 on penalties.
Japan have a tried and tested mechanical method.that works like clockwork and gels to perfection. But, they are fragile and can’t seem to last 90 minutes without caving!