By VIVIAN AHANMISI

Brazil secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 after a late Gabriel Martinelli winner.

The match at Houston’s NRG Stadium produced an entertaining contest, with Japan pushing Brazil throughout the knockout encounter.

Brazil started with Alisson Becker, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães and Vinícius Júnior.

Japan featured Zion Suzuki, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Hiroki Ito, Ritsu Doan, Kaishu Sano and Ayase Ueda.

Japan stunned the five-time champions in the 29th minute through Kaishu Sano’s composed finish inside the penalty area.

Sano reacted quickly after finding space and fired past Alisson to give Japan a deserved early advantage.

Brazil dominated possession afterwards but struggled to break Japan’s disciplined defensive shape before half-time.

Vinícius Júnior threatened repeatedly, but Japan’s compact backline prevented Brazil from creating clear openings.

The South Americans returned strongly after the interval, increasing pressure on Japan’s defence.

Their persistence paid off in the 55th minute when Casemiro headed in Brazil’s equaliser.

The midfielder connected with Gabriel’s delivery, restoring hope for Brazil after Japan’s impressive first-half display.

Japan continued fighting, with their counter-attacks causing problems for Brazil’s defenders late in the match.

Brazil introduced Gabriel Martinelli, whose impact eventually changed the outcome of the thrilling contest.

In stoppage time, Martinelli scored in the 96th minute to complete Brazil’s comeback victory.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Arsenal forward finished a Bruno Guimarães pass, sending Brazil into the next round.

Japan left the tournament with credit after pushing Brazil to the limit with a courageous performance.

Brazil now advances after surviving a major test from a technically gifted Japanese side. (NAN)