Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli has written his name into Brazilian football folklore, scoring a stunning last-gasp winner to send the Seleção into the Round of 16.

The decisive moment arrived in the 96th minute of a breathless Round of 32 clash played in Houston, Texas, settling a 2-1 victory over Japan.

Martinelli entered the match as a second-half substitute in the 65th minute, replacing a starter as Brazil searched desperately for a way through a resolute Japanese defence.

The winner came after Japan was dispossessed on the edge of its own box deep into stoppage time, gifting Brazil a dangerous position in a high-pressure moment.

Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes reacted instantly, sliding a deft, weighted pass into the penalty area to find the Arsenal winger in space.

Martinelli kept his composure brilliantly, taking a touch before clinically guiding a right-footed shot off the inside of the far post and beyond goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

The strike sparked wild celebrations across Texas and marked a historic moment for the five-time world champions on the grandest stage.

It was the first time Brazil had won a World Cup knockout match after conceding the opening goal since their iconic and triumphant 2002 campaign, ending a 24-year hoodoo.

Japan had stunned Brazil in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano capitalised on a misplaced midfield pass, driving forward to fire a stunning right-footed effort past Alisson.

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti faced the prospect of a shocking early tournament exit before his side rallied strongly in the second half through their Arsenal contingent.

Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes turned playmaker in the 56th minute, delivering a precise cross to the back post for veteran midfielder Casemiro to power home a towering equaliser.

The North London connection proved absolutely decisive across the entire evening, with Arsenal players manufacturing both of Brazil’s crucial goals at this tournament.

Guimaraes, who has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, combined beautifully with Martinelli to produce the match-winning moment when Brazil needed it most.

The Premier League stars ensured Brazil avoided a humiliating tournament exit and safely punched their ticket into the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup.

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