World Cup: Brazil leave it late to edge Japan and reach the last 16
Japan threatened another famous World Cup upset after taking the lead midway through the first half through Kaishu Sano, whose long-range strike stunned the five-time world champions in Houston.
Despite dominating possession throughout the contest, Brazil struggled to find a way past a disciplined Japanese defence before finally turning the tie around after the interval.
Paris Saint-Germain captain Marquinhos marshalled Brazil's back line once again, while his club teammate Lucas Beraldo remained among the substitutes. At the other end, former Olympique Lyonnais midfielder Lucas Paquetá started before being forced off through injury at half-time, with teenage striker Endrick replacing him.
Brazil's equaliser arrived after 56 minutes when Casemiro rose highest to head home from Gabriel's inviting cross, rewarding sustained pressure from the Seleção.
The momentum remained with Ancelotti's side as Vinícius Júnior struck the post and Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki produced a string of important saves to keep the scores level.
Samurai Blue pose worthy threat
The Samurai Blue, featuring former Stade de Reims winger Keito Nakamura, defended resolutely and looked destined to force extra time, but heartbreak arrived in stoppage time.
Bruno Guimarães slipped a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli, who kept his composure to fire beyond Suzuki and complete Brazil's dramatic comeback in the 95th minute.
Japan's spirited tournament comes to an end after another impressive display, having once again shown their ability to trouble one of football's traditional heavyweights.
Brazil, meanwhile, survive a major scare and continue their pursuit of a sixth World Cup title. The South Americans will now await the winner of Tuesday's Round of 32 meeting between Côte d'Ivoire and Norway as they look to build on a hard-fought victory.
THE STAT: Three in a row
Brazil have won their last 3 games in the FIFA World Cup, their last joint longest winning streak was from 22nd June 2018 to 2nd July 2018.
