Brazil advanced from the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup with a 2-1 win over Japan. Japan led through a goal from Kaishu Sano in the first half. Brazil equalized when Casemiro scored with a header in the second half. Gabriel Martinelli scored the winner in stoppage time.
Before the match, Japan forward Kento Shiogai commented that Brazil was not as strong as before and compared them unfavorably to teams like France and Argentina. After the game, Brazil forward Matheus Cunha held up five fingers toward Shiogai and made comments referencing Brazil’s five World Cup titles.
Cunha later said he respects every opponent but that the remarks before the game motivated the team. He also consoled Japanese players on the field after the final whistle.
The result moves Brazil into the Round of 16. Japan’s run in the tournament ended in the knockout stage. Matheus Cunha, who plays for Manchester United in the Premier League, has been a key part of Brazil’s squad during the World Cup.