Gabriel Martinelli etched his name into FIFA World Cup history with a dramatic 96th-minute winner as Brazil completed a remarkable comeback to defeat Japan 2-1 in the Round of 16, securing a place in the quarter-finals.

Japan shocked the five-time world champions by taking the lead in the first half through Kaishu Sano, putting Brazil under immense pressure. However, Carlo Ancelotti’s side responded strongly after the break, with Casemiro restoring parity before Martinelli delivered the decisive blow deep into stoppage time.

Introduced as a substitute in the 65th minute, the 25-year-old Arsenal forward proved to be Brazil’s game-changer. Just as the match appeared destined for extra time, Martinelli latched onto a precise pass from Bruno Guimarães and calmly slotted home the winner, sparking wild celebrations among the Brazilian players and supporters.

Beyond sealing Brazil’s comeback, Martinelli’s goal also created a historic milestone. His strike became the latest match-winning goal scored in normal time in a FIFA World Cup knockout match, surpassing a record that had stood for nearly two decades.

The previous record belonged to Italian legend Francesco Totti, who scored from the penalty spot against Australia in the Round of 16 at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in the 94th minute and 26th second. Martinelli’s 96th-minute winner now stands as the latest decisive goal in regulation time in World Cup knockout history.

The victory keeps Brazil’s quest for a sixth FIFA World Cup title alive, while Japan’s dream of reaching the quarter-finals came to a heartbreaking end despite an impressive performance. Martinelli’s late heroics will now be remembered as one of the most dramatic moments of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.