The Beautiful Game delivered a truly breathtaking spectacle as Brazil edged past Japan in a pulsating World Cup last 32 showdown. Gabriel Martinelli, the Brazilian hero, struck the decisive blow in the 96th minute, sending shockwaves around the stadium and leaving the Japanese faithful shattered. And what a match it was – 'What a match!' indeed!
Japan started like a whirlwind, their lightning-quick counter-attacks leaving Brazil's defence scrambling to keep pace. Kaishu Sano's early goal set the tone for an electrifying first half, with the Japanese players firing on all cylinders. But it was not just their blistering speed that caught the eye – Moriyasu's men also showed a maturity and organisation reminiscent of their impressive displays against Belgium in 2018 and Croatia in 2022.
However, Brazil's equaliser arrived courtesy of an unlikely hero: Casemiro. The veteran midfielder, who had been involved in Japan's opener, made amends with a thunderous header that left the Brazilian fans delirious. And it was Ancelotti's masterful tactical tweaks that swung the game in their favour – keeping Casemiro on and unleashing Martinelli in a left midfield role proved the turning point.
Then came the moment of magic – deep into injury time, Martinelli received a pass, took a sublime touch, and unleashed a shot that arrowed into the far post. The Japanese players were devastated, their valiant effort ultimately undone by this late, cruel blow. Brazil's attacking prowess told in the end, with 16 shots to Japan's five, as they booked their place in the next round.
The victors will now face either Norway or Cote d'Ivoire in the next stage of the tournament. But it is Japan who have left a lasting impression – their courageous display has earned them widespread acclaim, with many pundits suggesting Moriyasu's name should be on the shortlist for top European jobs.