Brazil has secured a hard-fought passage to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan in the Round of 32. The five-time world champions trailed early but rallied in the second half.
Casemiro found the equalizer before substitute Gabriel Martinelli struck deep in added time to send the Brazilian fans into raptures and book their place in the last 16. Carlo Ancelotti’s side will now face the winner of the playoff-style clash between Norway and Ivory Coast.
Brazil powers to World Cup 2026 Round of 16; who will they face next?
The winner will take on Brazil on July 6 in New York. The Selecao, who have looked increasingly dangerous as the tournament progresses, will fancy their chances against either African or European opposition as they aim to go deep in a World Cup hosted across North America.
It will be closely watched tomorrow to see who emerges as Brazil’s next opponent in what promises to be an exciting Round of 16 encounter. Meanwhile, Norway, led by Erling Haaland, will enter the fixture as heavy favourites.