World Cup 2026: Brazil 2-1 Japan – Gabriel Martinelli scores dramatic winner as Carlo Ancelotti’s side advance with comeback win – Sky Sports

Brazil’s World Cup 2026 campaign began with a nervy win, not the statement they wanted but the three points they desperately needed. A late surge from Gabriel Martinelli rescued Carlo Ancelotti’s side from the brink against Japan, securing a 2-1 victory that keeps their tournament hopes alive. The Seleção survived a disciplined, organized Japanese side and a missed penalty, only to be punished by a moment of individual brilliance in stoppage time.

Brazil’s frailties exposed before Martinelli’s rescue

Japan started brightly, pressing high and forcing Brazil onto the back foot. Their pressure paid off when a penalty was awarded after a VAR review, though the decision was tight. The spot-kick was converted, leaving Brazil staring at defeat before the clock reached 90 minutes. The goal came from a set-piece routine that caught Brazil’s defensive line out of position, exposing the vulnerability that has haunted them in recent years.

Ancelotti responded by reshuffling his midfield, introducing fresh legs to regain control. The changes paid dividends as Brazil began to assert themselves, with Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo combining effectively on the left. Yet, despite dominating possession in the second half, they struggled to break down a compact Japanese defense. The equalizer arrived through a moment of individual quality—Martinelli, introduced as a substitute, took advantage of a loose ball in the box to restore parity.

Ancelotti’s adjustments shift the momentum

Ancelotti’s substitutions were the turning point. The introduction of Martinelli alongside Endrick injected pace and creativity into Brazil’s attack, stretching Japan’s defense. The equalizer stemmed from a quick counter, with Martinelli exploiting the space behind the full-back. The goal was a reminder of Brazil’s attacking depth, even if the route to it was far from smooth.

Japan, meanwhile, showed resilience in defense, absorbing pressure without conceding further chances. Their midfield, marshaled by a disciplined pivot, limited Brazil’s creativity in central areas. The visitors nearly restored their lead late on, but a misplaced pass in the final third allowed Brazil to launch a decisive attack. The winner arrived in the 90th minute, a clinical finish that underscored Brazil’s ability to punish opponents when it matters most.

What this means for Brazil’s World Cup 2026 path

Brazil’s performance will raise questions about their defensive structure and midfield control. The penalty conceded and the late winner suggest a side still finding its rhythm, despite the quality on paper. Ancelotti will hope the win serves as a wake-up call, forcing his team to tighten their defensive shape and improve their transitional play.

For Japan, the defeat is a setback but not a disaster. Their organized display and disciplined pressing offered glimpses of a team capable of competing with the elite. The result leaves them needing a strong showing in their next match to keep their hopes of progression alive.

Brazil now face a crucial fixture against a rival in their group, where a similar performance could prove costly. The Seleção’s attacking talent remains undeniable, but their defensive lapses and midfield fragility must be addressed if they are to go deep in this tournament. Martinelli’s goal may have saved the game, but the underlying issues remain.

One thing is clear: Brazil are not yet the finished article. Whether they can turn this narrow victory into a platform for greater things will define their World Cup 2026 campaign.