In a gripping encounter at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Brazil came from behind to beat Japan 2-1, a result that has significantly clarified England's route to the World Cup final. Japan had taken a shock lead just before the half-hour mark through Kaishu Sano, whose low, precise finish from outside the area gave the underdogs hope. The goal came moments after a hydration break, with Sano punishing Brazil for a cheap turnover on the halfway line.
Brazil responded just over 10 minutes into the second half when Casemiro, the former Manchester United midfielder, powered in a header from a teasing cross by Gabriel. As the clock ticked deep into injury time, Bruno Guimaraes set up Gabriel Martinelli to steal the win at the death, breaking Japanese hearts.
“Brazil beat Japan 2-1 with a stoppage-time winner, clearing England's path to a potential quarter-final against Brazil.”
For England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, the path to the final now appears clearer. The Three Lions, who topped Group L after wins over Croatia and Panama and a draw with Ghana, face DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 1 in their round of 32 match. Should they progress, they will meet either Mexico or Ecuador in Mexico City on July 6 in the last 16, a potentially tricky encounter given the altitude.
Victory in that game would set up a quarter-final in Miami on July 11 against the winner of Brazil's next tie — either Norway or the Ivory Coast. Beyond that, Argentina, the reigning world champions led by Lionel Messi, are likely to await in the semi-final on July 15, barring major upsets in that bracket. Argentina play Cape Verde in the round of 32, then face either Australia or Egypt in the last 16, with a quarter-final against one of Switzerland, Algeria, Colombia, or Ghana.
The final is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. With penalties a possibility in the knockout stages, goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has made clear he is ready for what lies ahead. England's route has become one step clearer after Brazil's dramatic late win in Houston.