Former Manchester United midfielder Casemiro believes the Seleção have all the qualities needed to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup after overcoming a stubborn Japan side to book their place in the Round of 16.
The five-time world champions were pushed to the limit before securing a dramatic 2-1 victory, with substitute Gabriel Martinelli scoring a stoppage-time winner to keep Brazil’s quest for a sixth world title alive.
Japan stunned Brazil in the first half after Kaishu Sano fired them into the lead with a superb strike in the 29th minute, leaving Carlo Ancelotti’s side chasing the game.
Despite dominating possession and creating the better chances, Brazil struggled to break down Japan’s disciplined defensive block until Casemiro restored parity early in the second half.
READ MORE:Brazil vs Japan: Gabriel Martinelli fires Selecao into World Cup Round of 16 with late winner
The experienced midfielder rose highest to head home Brazil’s equaliser, shifting the momentum in favour of the South Americans. As the match drifted towards extra time, Brazil continued to pile pressure on Japan’s defence before Martinelli produced the decisive moment in the fifth minute of stoppage time, calmly finishing from close range to spark wild celebrations.
Brazil finished the match with 19 attempts on goal, seven of them on target, compared to Japan’s five shots, underlining the pressure Ancelotti’s men applied throughout the contest.
Reflecting on the victory, Casemiro praised the team’s mentality and highlighted the importance of the players who came off the bench to change the game.
“Our greatest strength was our mindset,” Casemiro said after the match.
“We kept believing and continued attacking throughout the game. In a World Cup, it is very important to value the players who come off the bench because they can completely change a match.”
The veteran midfielder singled out Endrick and Martinelli for their influential contributions after coming on in the second half, while also praising Rayan for stepping up following Raphinha’s injury.
“Endrick came on and played very well today. Martinelli is another fantastic player, and Rayan has done an excellent job replacing Raphinha. That is the spirit within this group, and I truly believe this squad can win the World Cup,” he added.
Ancelotti’s substitutions proved decisive as Endrick’s movement and physical presence unsettled Japan’s backline, creating more space for Brazil’s attackers. Martinelli then capped off the comeback by making the most of his opportunity with a composed finish that sent the Seleção into the next round.
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For Martinelli, the goal marked a special milestone as it was his first for Brazil in a major international tournament. The Arsenal forward admitted the emotions were overwhelming after scoring such an important goal.
“I can’t find the words to describe the joy in my heart,” Martinelli said.
“Seeing all those fans celebrating, my parents and my friends in the stands, it’s an incredible feeling. After hitting the woodwork earlier, I believed another opportunity would come.”
The 25-year-old added that individual positions matter little as long as he is contributing to the team’s success.
“I’m just happy I was able to help the team. Whether I’m playing on the left wing or through the middle, the most important thing is helping Brazil win.”
With confidence growing inside the Brazilian camp and several players making strong impacts from the bench, Casemiro believes the Seleção have both the quality and depth required to go all the way as they continue their pursuit of a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup crown.
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Brazil national football team 2026
France national football team 2026
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