Brazil beats Japan in Houston's first World Cup knockout game

Brazil rallied from a halftime deficit to beat Japan 2-1 on June 29, 2026, in Houston’s first World Cup knockout-stage match.

Japan led 1-0 at the break after Kaishu Sano scored in the 29th minute. Brazil equalized through Casemiro in the 56th minute, then completed the comeback in stoppage time when Gabriel Martinelli scored the winner.

The result sends Brazil into the round of 16 and ends Japan’s run. It also extends Japan’s search for a first World Cup knockout victory.

Carlo Ancelotti, who coached Brazil, praised his team’s resilience after the comeback. AP reported that Casemiro left the match with an apparent leg injury, a concern Brazil may have to monitor before its next game.

Houston's first knockout game

The match gave Houston its first World Cup elimination-round game and added to the city’s tournament profile. Houston is scheduled to host one more World Cup match on July 4, 2026.

Local coverage described a tense, high-energy atmosphere as Brazil survived Japan’s challenge and closed the match with a late decisive goal.

What it means next

Brazil moves on in the knockout bracket and keeps its title chase alive. The team’s immediate focus now turns to Casemiro’s condition and its next opponent, which was not confirmed in the available reporting.