Jun 30 (V7N) — Gabriel Martinelli came off the bench to score a dramatic 96th-minute winner as Brazil completed a stunning 2-1 comeback victory over Japan to book their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Trailing for the first time in 24 years at a World Cup, Brazil responded with resilience to overturn the deficit in a thrilling knockout encounter. While Brazilian players celebrated wildly at the final whistle, head coach Carlo Ancelotti remained remarkably composed on the touchline, drawing admiration for his calm demeanor under intense pressure.
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu's tactical plans appeared to be working until Brazil mounted their comeback. Following the victory, Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha responded to comments from opponents by raising five fingers and declaring, "We have five. This is Brazil. How many do you have?"—a reference to Brazil's record five World Cup titles.
Why Neymar Stayed on the Bench
With Brazil having equalized at 1-1, Neymar Jr. was seen warming up on the sidelines, leading many to expect his introduction. However, Ancelotti decided against bringing on the Brazilian star.
Speaking after the match, the Italian coach explained that Neymar had been scheduled to enter the game if Brazil failed to level the score during regular time.
"There was a plan to bring Neymar on. We discussed it together. If we hadn't equalized, he would have entered around the 60th or 65th minute. But after we scored, I didn't want to change the team's balance because we had taken control of the match," Ancelotti said.
Tactical Changes Turn the Match Around
Ancelotti credited his team's composure and tactical adjustments for the comeback. One of the key decisions was introducing Endrick in place of Lucas Paquetá during the first half, a move that shifted the momentum in Brazil's favor.
Brazil forward Gabriel Martinelli praised the coach's leadership after the match.
"It is a privilege to play under a mastermind like Carlo Ancelotti. When we were trailing, he calmed us down in the dressing room and made important tactical adjustments, including bringing on Endrick. He believed in us, and his strategy ultimately brought us victory," Martinelli said.
'My Legs Were Shaking'
Despite his calm appearance, Ancelotti admitted he was under enormous pressure throughout the match.
"While standing in the technical area, I felt my legs shaking. I can't remember the last time I experienced such pressure. That's why, when Martinelli scored the winner, I couldn't even celebrate properly," the Brazilian coach said.
Brazil will play their Round of 16 match on July 5 at 2:00 am Bangladesh time. Their opponent will be determined after the Ivory Coast vs. Norway Round of 32 match on Tuesday, with the winner advancing to face the five-time world champions.
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