Brazil were pushed to the brink before snatching a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan, who stunned the favourites with Kaishu Sano’s long-range opener midway through the first half.
The South Americans dominated after the break, with Zion Suzuki producing a string of outstanding saves and Japan twice scrambling goal-line clearances to preserve their lead.
Casemiro eventually restored parity with a headed finish before Brazil piled on relentless pressure. Just as the match appeared destined for a draw, Gabriel Martinelli punished a costly defensive error in the closing moments, firing home via the post to complete a hard-fought comeback and break Japan’s resistance.
