Former Brazil international Ronaldinho expressed his delight after the national team secured a place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a 2-1 victory over Japan.
Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic 95th-minute winner as Brazil made a thrilling second-half comeback to defeat Japan in front of a packed stadium on Monday local time.
Japan had taken a surprise lead in the first half when Kaishu Sano intercepted a loose ball deep inside his own half and completed a 40-yard solo run before scoring past goalkeeper Alisson.
Brazil increased their pressure after a largely frustrated first half, with veteran midfielder Casemiro equalising through a header from a cross by Gabriel Magalhaes.
With the match heading towards extra time, Danilo regained possession and found Endrick, who passed to Bruno Guimaraes. Guimaraes then set up Martinelli, who calmly scored the decisive goal.
Brazil will face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the Round of 16 on July 5 at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
