New Delhi: Brazil booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 in dramatic fashion after Gabriel Martinelli scored deep into stoppage time to seal a thrilling 2-1 victory over Japan in Houston.
The five-time world champions were pushed to the limit by a determined Japanese side that looked set to force extra time before Martinelli produced the decisive moment in the 95th minute, sparking celebrations among the large contingent of Brazilian supporters inside the stadium.
Japan stunned the favourites midway through the first half after capitalising on a costly mistake in the Brazilian defence. Midfielder Kaishu Sano showcased his composure and skill with an impressive solo effort in the 29th minute, weaving his way through before finding the net to hand his side a surprise lead.
Brazil struggled to find their rhythm in the opening period but emerged with greater urgency after the break as they took control of possession and pinned Japan back inside their own half.
Their pressure eventually paid off 11 minutes into the second half when veteran midfielder Casemiro rose highest inside the penalty area to head home the equaliser and bring Brazil back into the contest.
With momentum firmly on their side, Brazil continued to search for a winner while Japan defended resolutely and threatened on the counterattack.
Just as extra time appeared inevitable, Martinelli delivered the decisive blow. The Arsenal winger kept his composure in the dying moments to score the winning goal and send Brazil into the last 16 in unforgettable fashion.
Brazil will now face either Ivory Coast or Norway in New Jersey for a place in the quarter-finals.
Germany Face Crucial Test Against Paraguay As Pressure Mounts At World Cup
Julian Nagelsmann’s side seek to rediscover momentum after a shock defeat in their final group match.
Germany head into their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash against Paraguay under growing pressure after a mixed group-stage campaign raised fresh doubts over their title credentials.
The four-time champions arrived at the tournament in excellent form, carrying a nine-match winning streak into the competition. Convincing victories early in the tournament appeared to confirm Germany’s status as one of the favourites before a surprise defeat in their final group match halted their momentum.
The loss not only ended their impressive run of results but also reignited concerns over whether the team can avoid another disappointing World Cup campaign after early exits in both 2018 and 2022.
Particular attention has fallen on Germany’s attacking stars, who have struggled to consistently influence matches despite high expectations before the tournament. Instead, it has been substitute striker Deniz Undav who has emerged as the side’s leading scorer so far.
Paraguay, meanwhile, arrive with confidence after qualifying for the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed teams in the expanded tournament format. Their disciplined defensive displays and physical style have become key strengths during the competition.
Having recorded consecutive clean sheets, Paraguay are expected to frustrate Germany by sitting deep and looking to exploit opportunities on the counterattack.
Germany remain favourites on paper, but another disappointing performance could intensify the scrutiny surrounding both the players and coaching staff.
Stephen Eustaquio Fires Canada Into Historic First World Cup Round Of 16
Stoppage-time winner against South Africa seals a landmark achievement for Les Rouges.
Canada reached the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 for the first time in their history after a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa in California.
The breakthrough arrived deep into stoppage time when Stephen Eustaquio finally found a way past South Africa’s resilient defence, ending a lengthy international goal drought and securing one of the biggest moments in Canadian football history.
Canada controlled possession and created the better opportunities throughout the contest but repeatedly found themselves frustrated by a disciplined South African side determined to extend their memorable World Cup journey.
The opening half ended without a goal as South Africa’s organised backline and impressive goalkeeping display kept the Canadians at bay despite sustained pressure.
The pattern continued after the interval, with Canada dominating territory and possession while struggling to convert their superiority into goals. South Africa defended bravely and looked increasingly likely to force extra time.
However, with the match entering its final moments, Eustaquio produced the decisive contribution. The midfielder calmly converted the chance when it mattered most, scoring his first international goal in almost 30 months and sending Canadian supporters into celebration.
The victory not only ended South Africa’s historic campaign but also secured Canada’s first ever appearance in the World Cup Round of 16, marking a landmark achievement for the national team.
