Cunha, who has been in fine goalscoring form during the tournament, started for Brazil and contributed to the team’s attack. He played 66 minutes before making way for Gabriel Martinelli, who would later help Brazil clinch a late winner. In the three-group-stage matches, Cunha had already notched three goals, continuing a standout run for his country at the World Cup. In this fixture, Cunha registered 3 shots (one on target), 27 touches, and completed one dribble. He finished with a 100% pass accuracy from his 17 attempted passes and also won his sole defensive duel.
Casemiro, back in action after departing Manchester United at the end of his contract, faced a tough first half as Japan pressed energetically in midfield. He recovered in the second half and delivered the equaliser, marking his first goal of the 2026 World Cup. The versatile midfielder eventually played 93 minutes, finishing with one goal, two shots, and 91 touches. His passing was precise, achieving an 89% success rate. Casemiro also contributed eight defensive actions and won four of six duels, underscoring his blend of defensive coverage and late-game impact.
Ederson, the 38 million-pound signing reportedly tied to Manchester United, remained an unused substitute in this match. Cunha and Casemiro both started for Brazil, while Ederson’s involvement remains on the sidelines for this game.
The clash ended with Brazil securing a dramatic victory in injury time, sending them into the knockout stages of the World Cup. This result keeps Brazil on course in the Round of 16, with the potential to meet the winner of Ivory Coast versus Norway in the next round. Amad Diallo could be a potential opponent in the subsequent stage, depending on the outcome of that fixture.
Looking ahead, Cunha, Casemiro, and Ederson remain three of the Brazilian contingent in the knockout phase of the tournament, as Brazil push to advance further in the competition. The squad’s cohesion and individual contributions will be pivotal as the team faces their next challenge in the knockout rounds.
