Casemiro header draws Brazil level after Sano puts Japan ahead; second half underway

Brazil haven't won the World Cup since 2002. But even in their humiliating 1-7 defeat to Germany 12 years ago, the fans of the Selecao still had the consolation that the most successful nation in the tournament's history had made it at least to the quarterfinals in over three decades.

That history was in danger tonight after Japan took a shock lead inside 30 minutes of their round of 32 clash in Houston. Kaishu Sano collected a misplaced pass from Danilo before dashing forward and arrowing into a corner, past Alisson, for his first international goal in the 29th minute.

But Brazil were back in business before the hour. Casemiro scored the equaliser in the 56th minute. The midfielder towered over the defence at the back post to score from a powerful header.

The goal came at the end of relentless pressure applied by the Brazilian attackers after the break. Suzuki made a series of saves, including one from point-blank range. There was another attempt saved off the line before Casemiro's strike. Soon after, Vinicius Junior forced a smart save from Suzuki while aiming for the far corner.

Japan had stunned Germany and Spain in the group stages in the previous edition. Tonight, they threaten to knock out one of the favourites.

They famously produced a memorable turnaround in the second half of a friendly in Tokyo in October 2025 -- to win 3-2 -- the last meeting between the teams.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti named an unchanged side from their 3-0 win over Scotland. It meant star striker Neymar was left on the bench, while 19-year-old forward Rayan made his second start for the national side.

Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu made four changes to his team that drew 1-1 against Sweden in their final Group F match. Goalscorer Sano was among those who started the match, while Takefusa Kubo was benched.