Brazil secured a place in the World Cup last 16 after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan in Houston. Japan initially stunned the crowd when Kaishu Sano scored a solo goal in the 29th minute following a defensive error by Danilo. Brazil dominated the second half, eventually equalizing through a Casemiro header shortly after the break. The match remained tense until the 95th minute, when substitute Gabriel Martinelli scored the winning goal. The victory allows the five-time champions to advance to the next round in New Jersey. Brazil will now face either Norway or the Ivory Coast on Sunday. Despite Japan's status as dark horses, they were unable to overcome Carlo Ancelotti's side in this knockout encounter.