Brazil won a dramatic 2-1-mix over Japan on Monday, finding the net in the dying moments to qualify for the last 16 of the World Cup.
The Japanese were able to surprise the five-time world champions as they took the lead with a surprise goal in the 29th minute. Defender Danilo failed to make a good pass, giving midfielder Kaishu Sano the ball.
Sano went forward from midfield and easily scored against goalkeeper Alisson to level the score at 1-1 for Japan.
This was the first goal by Sano in international play and Brazil was put under pressure.
Brazil struggled in the first half, but improved after the break. Coach Carlo Ancelotti made some changes to his team, introducing young striker Endrick.
However, the pressure was reduced in the 56th minute when defender Gabriel put a cross into the penalty area.
Veteran midfielder Casemiro, left unmarked, scored the goal, equalising the game at 1-1.
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After this, Brazil attacked aggressively and Japan defended valiantly as the score was level.
Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki blocked some high-risk shots and defender Takehiro Tomiyasu deflected some shots to keep his team in the game.
Substitute Gabriel Martinelli made the difference when it seemed like the contest was running into a penalty.
The Arsenal winger scored the winning goal in the fifth minute of added time (95th minute) and the players and supporters of Brazil roared in celebration.
The victory has extended a string of games that have kept Brazil’s World Cup dreams alive. On Sunday they will play in the Round of 16 with Ivory Coast or Norway.
Japan, however, put one of football’s most successful teams to the test in its amazing display of resilience but ended up on the losing side.
