Brazil's rising star started a reversal operation can meet Norway

In a dramatic twist during the World Cup knockout stage, Brazil managed to overturn a first-half deficit against Japan and advance to the quarterfinals. The match, played on June 29, 2026, saw Brazil come back from a 1-0 halftime disadvantage to win 2-1 after extra time. The decisive goal came from substitute Gabriel Martinelli, who scored in the 95th minute, securing Brazil's place in the next round. This victory marked Brazil’s progression beyond the group stages for the first time since their historic 1998 World Cup campaign, where they famously faced Norway in the Round of 16.

The match was tightly contested throughout, with both teams displaying moments of brilliance and frustration. Japan had taken control early in the game, capitalizing on a defensive error by Brazil. Kaishu Sano opened the scoring for Japan just before halftime, slotting the ball into the top-right corner of Brazil’s net after a swift counterattack. His goal was described as clinical and resolute, leaving Brazil trailing and under pressure for much of the second half.

Brazil struggled initially, particularly in midfield, where Casemiro drew criticism for his performance. He received a yellow card in the 13th minute after a failed challenge on Hiroki Ito, which many analysts viewed as a costly mistake. Brazilian media outlets such as *O Globo* and *Daily Mail* pointed to Casemiro as a symbol of Brazil’s disorganization, noting his poor decision-making and positioning. Despite this, Casemiro later made amends by scoring the equalizer in the 56th minute, heading in a cross from Gabriel Magalhães to bring Brazil level.

The momentum shifted dramatically in the second half, with Brazil showing increased resilience and tactical discipline. Their coach, Carlo Ancelotti, praised the team’s ability to adapt and fight back, calling it the best performance Brazil had delivered so far in the tournament. “We kept our belief that we could win,” Ancelotti said after the match, highlighting the importance of maintaining composure under pressure.

Despite the late comeback, Japan put up a valiant effort in the second half, but Brazil’s superior finishing power ultimately proved decisive. Martinelli’s goal in extra time sealed the victory, sending Brazil into the quarterfinals. The win also set up a potential rematch with Norway, the winner of the earlier match between Norway and Ivory Coast, which was scheduled for the following day.

Norway has been a familiar opponent for Brazil in recent international tournaments, most notably in the 1998 World Cup when Brazil defeated them in the Round of 16. However, this upcoming encounter will be the first time the two nations meet in the knockout stages of a World Cup since then. Brazil’s coach, Ancelotti, remained tight-lipped about the potential matchup, stating that the focus would remain on preparing for the next challenge regardless of the opponent.

For Japan, the loss marked yet another early exit from the World Cup, as they have never advanced past the group stage in previous World Cup appearances. Coach Hajime Moriyasu expressed disappointment, acknowledging the need for improvement but emphasizing the team’s efforts throughout the match. “It’s very disappointing that we have to leave the tournament now,” Moriyasu said, adding that the squad would work harder to become stronger in future competitions.

The match highlighted the unpredictable nature of the World Cup, where even the most dominant teams can face unexpected challenges. Brazil’s journey continues with high stakes ahead, as they prepare to face either Norway or Ivory Coast in the quarterfinals. With the tournament progressing, fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the next chapter of this storied rivalry and the performances that lie ahead.