Here’s the latest update from the ongoing FIFA World Cup as of 2026-06-29 23:22:00.
Casemiro Praises Calmness in Brazil’s Victory Over Japan
HOUSTON — Brazil narrowly avoided a major upset in the FIFA World Cup 2026, thanks to the calm and composed responses of their players after falling behind 1-0 against Japan. Casemiro highlighted the importance of remaining “calm” as the five-time World Cup champions countered Hajime Moriyasu’s resilient team during their round-of-32 clash.
Japan’s Kaishu Sano scored in the 29th minute, putting Brazil on edge and threatening their chances of losing to an Asian team for the first time in a competitive match. A loss would have marked Brazil’s earliest exit from the tournament since 1966.
Brazil’s Comeback
The Brazilian side didn’t panic. Casemiro eventually equalized in the second half, followed by a thrilling winner from Gabriel Martinelli in the fifth minute of stoppage time. This late surge granted Brazil a spot in the round of 16, where they will face either Norway or Ivory Coast in New Jersey on July 5.
“The victory was about our calm and patience in applying pressure against a team that plays a low block,” Casemiro explained. “Believing that our calmness would allow us to create opportunities became vital.”
Casemiro was pleased with the team’s performance throughout the match, stating, “We had possession and fought for every ball, which gave us confidence that chances would come. Japan is a well-organized team, but we excelled in the second half.”
Despite the jubilant victory, both Casemiro and Lucas Paquetá exited the match with injuries. Manager Carlo Ancelotti indicated that both players would be assessed within 24 hours to determine their availability for the next match. “It was a very demanding match, so we will see how they recover,” Ancelotti noted.
Emotional Moments Following the Win
Martinelli’s last-minute goal, his fourth in just 25 appearances for Brazil, was an emotional highlight for the Arsenal player. “Words can’t express the joy I feel knowing our qualification has made the Brazilian people so happy,” he shared.
Reflecting on the moment, he said, “It’s surreal, and I can’t wait for it to sink in. I knew I’d get another chance, and I’m grateful to have scored the goal that secured our advancement.”
FAQs
What did Casemiro say about Brazil’s performance?
Casemiro emphasized that keeping calm and maintaining patience were crucial in securing the victory against Japan.
When does Brazil play next in the World Cup?
Brazil’s next match is in the round of 16, scheduled for July 5 against either Norway or Ivory Coast.
Key Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-06-29 23:22:00
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Tags: #Casemiro #Calm #patience #key #Brazil #win #Japan #World #Cup
Tags: #Casemiro #Calm #patience #key #Brazil #win #Japan #World #Cup
