HOUSTON — Casemiro expressed that Brazil managed to avoid one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history against Japan by remaining “calm” even after falling behind early in their round-of-32 match.
Kaishu Sano’s goal in the 29th minute posed a threat of Brazil suffering their first competitive loss to an Asian team and exiting the World Cup earlier than any point since their group stage exit in 1966.
However, Casemiro equalized in the second half, and Gabriel Martinelli clinched the win with a dramatic goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time, leading Brazil to a round-of-16 matchup against either Norway or Ivory Coast in New Jersey on July 5.
“Our victory was rooted in our calmness and patience while applying pressure against a team that played defensively,” Casemiro remarked. “This was crucial—having faith that our calm would eventually lead to goals.”
“We fought hard throughout the match and maintained possession, so we knew we would create opportunities. Japan had a well-organized defense, but we performed excellently in the second half and secured the win.
“I’m extremely happy,” he stated. “There are so many people celebrating this, and I take immense pride in moving forward.”
“We’re looking ahead to the round of 16, but for now, we need to rest, keeping in mind that we have four more matches to play.”
Casemiro, along with former West Ham midfielder Lucas Paquetá, couldn’t finish the match due to injuries sustained during the game. Manager Carlo Ancelotti noted that both would be evaluated within 24 hours to determine their availability for the next match.
“We’ll have to see how they fare tomorrow,” Ancelotti said. “It was a physically demanding game.”
Martinelli’s winning goal marked only his fourth for Brazil in 25 appearances, and the Arsenal player described the moment as deeply emotional as he helped his nation advance.
“Words can’t express the joy I feel to see the Brazilian people so happy about our progression,” Martinelli told Caze TV.
– Brazil dodges World Cup upset with a late triumph over Japan to advance to the round of 16
– Gabriel Martinelli scores 96th-minute winner, eliminating Japan from the World Cup
“I can’t adequately express what I’m feeling right now about my family, my wife, my parents, and my friends. It’s overwhelming.
“I believe it will take some time for this moment to fully sink in,” he reflected. “Recently, I hit the post, but I knew I’d get another opportunity, and thankfully, I scored the goal that secured our qualification.
“I’m thrilled with everyone’s contribution—everyone gave their best effort.”