Brazil stages a thrilling comeback, beating Japan 2-1 in a World Cup last-32 tie!

Sano capitalized on a sloppy pass and poor Casemiro defending to put Japan ahead in Houston just before the half-hour mark.

Brazil looked much better in the second half after a quiet first, with Casemiro powering home a header at the back post after an earlier easy header was saved off the line.

Vinicius Jr was denied a wonder goal by a fine Suzuki save, but substitute Martinelli curled in a superb 96th-minute winner after a pass from Guimaraes, snatching the victory before extra time.

Brazil finished with an xG of 1.72 to Japan's 0.23, as the Asian side paid for sitting back too much.

Ancelotti's squad now faces Ivory Coast or Norway in the last 16.

Thanks for joining!

Full-Time

FULL-TIME!

Brazil defeats Japan 2-1 in this FIFA World Cup match at Houston Stadium.

We're in the ninth minute of what was supposed to be six minutes of added time.

The stoppage for Casemiro's injury and the goal mean there might be another minute to play.

SUB: Guimaraes, fresh off that assist, makes way for Danilo.

SUB: Japan makes a change as Ogawa replaces Maeda.

Is it too late for a response?

Guimaraes finds a pocket of space and slides the ball to Martinelli, who finishes it off for Brazil!

GOAL!

BRAZIL LEADS 2-1 IN THE 95TH MINUTE!

Guimaraes slips the ball to Martinelli, who, despite being surrounded by Japan players, takes a perfect first touch to set up his shot.

He bends it away from Suzuki, leaving Japan heartbroken!

The corner is sent in deep, and Fabinho meets it with a header from about 12 yards out, but it sails high and wide.

Endricks turns his man inside out, but a strong recovery means Brazil only gets a corner kick.

SUB: Brazil's goalscorer Casemiro is forced off due to injury.

Fabinho comes on to replace him.

Casemiro is down and needs treatment.

Ancelotti is preparing a change.