They were minutes away from elimination, staring at a World Cup exit that would have sent shockwaves through the tournament. But Brazil dug deep in Houston, snatching a 2-1 victory over Japan deep into injury time — a result that not only kept their campaign alive but also clarified England's route to the final.
Japan had taken a stunning lead just before the half-hour mark. Kaishu Sano, the Mainz midfielder, fired a low, precise finish into the bottom corner from outside the area after Brazil gave the ball away cheaply on the halfway line. The goal came minutes after a highly criticised hydration break, and suddenly the five-time world champions were at risk of exiting the competition.
“Brazil's injury-time winner over Japan clears England's potential route to the World Cup final.”
Carlo Ancelotti's side responded just over ten minutes into the second half. A teasing cross from Gabriel found Casemiro at the far post, and the former Manchester United midfielder powered in a header to level the score. The equaliser breathed life into Brazil, but with time running out, extra time loomed.
Then, deep into injury time, Bruno Guimaraes set up Gabriel Martinelli, who stole the win at the death. The Arsenal forward's strike sent the Selecao through and broke Japanese hearts.
The victory means Thomas Tuchel's England could now face Brazil in the quarter-finals in Miami — but only if the Three Lions first defeat the winner of Ivory Coast vs Norway in the last 16. England, who topped Group L with wins over Croatia and Panama and a draw with Ghana, are set to face DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 1 in their first knockout game. Should they beat DR Congo, England will then face either Mexico or Ecuador in Mexico City, a potentially tricky encounter given the altitude.
If England overcome one of Brazil, Norway or the Ivory Coast in the quarter-final, it is likely to be Argentina who await them in the semi-final, barring any major upsets. Lionel Messi and co. take on Cape Verde in their round of 32 clash, with a tie against the winner of Australia and Egypt awaiting them in the last 16. The reigning world champions will face one of Switzerland, Algeria, Colombia or Ghana in the quarter-finals.
For now, Brazil's late drama has set up a potential blockbuster showdown — and given England a clearer path to glory.