Brazil Triumphs Over Japan in FIFA World Cup 2026: Lula Applauds Ancelotti's Decision

In a thrilling match at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Brazil overcame Japan 2-1, with President Lula praising coach Carlo Ancelotti for keeping midfielder Casemiro on the pitch. Despite initial calls for Casemiro's substitution, he scored the equalizer, leading to a dramatic last-minute winner from Gabriel Martinelli. This victory propels Brazil into the Round of 16, where they will face either Ivory Coast or Norway. The match was a rare encounter between the two nations in World Cup history, adding to Brazil's storied football legacy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 1, 2026, 08:19 IST

Brazil's Victory and Lula's Praise

In Brasilia, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva expressed his admiration for head coach Carlo Ancelotti's decision to keep midfielder Casemiro on the field during Brazil's Round of 32 match against Japan in the FIFA World Cup. Initially, Lula, along with many spectators, believed Casemiro should be substituted before he scored the crucial goal.

In a video shared by a local media outlet on X, Lula recounted how those watching the game with him were urging for Casemiro's removal, a sentiment he initially shared. However, he later acknowledged the ease of giving advice from the sidelines, thanking Ancelotti for his choice to retain Casemiro, who ultimately netted the game-winning goal.

Brazil secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Japan, thanks to a dramatic last-minute goal from Gabriel Martinelli, ensuring their progression to the Round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Japan shocked the five-time champions early in the match when Kaishu Sano intercepted a loose ball and executed a stunning 40-yard solo run, scoring to put Japan ahead 1-0.

Despite a challenging first half where Japan's goalkeeper Zion Suzuki faced little pressure, Brazil ramped up their efforts. Gabriel Magalhaes delivered a precise cross that allowed Casemiro to head in the equalizer, making it 1-1.

As the match seemed headed for extra time, Danilo regained possession and found Endrick, who assisted Bruno Guimaraes. Guimaraes then set up Martinelli, who calmly slotted the ball into the far corner, clinching the 2-1 win.

With this victory, Brazil moves on to face either Ivory Coast or Norway on July 5 at the New York-New Jersey Stadium.

This encounter marked a rare meeting between Brazil and Japan on the World Cup stage, with their previous clash occurring in 2006, where Brazil also emerged victorious.

Historically, Brazil has dominated this matchup, winning 12 out of 15 encounters, with only one loss, which came in a friendly match in Tokyo just months before this tournament.