Brazil Scores Late Winner to Defeat Japan 2-1 in World Cup Round of 32

Brazil defeated Japan 2-1 in the World Cup round of 32 on Monday in Houston after scoring twice in the second half, including a goal deep in stoppage time. Japan took the lead in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano intercepted a misplaced pass and scored with a right-footed shot.

Brazil equalized in the 56th minute when Casemiro headed in a cross from Gabriel Magalhaes at the back post. The match appeared headed for extra time until a substitute converted a pass in the sixth minute of added time to give Brazil the win.

Brazil will face the winner of Ivory Coast versus Norway in the round of 16 on Sunday in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

“I can’t find the words to describe the joy in my heart. Seeing all those fans on their feet, my parents, my friends. I can’t explain it.”

Casemiro was named man of the match after scoring the equalizer and helping Brazil regain control in the second half. Japan’s players remained on the pitch in visible distress after the final whistle.