Brazil midfielder Casemiro believes the Seleção have both the mentality and squad depth to win the World Cup after their hard-fought 2–1 comeback victory over Japan in Houston secured a place in the Round of 16.
The five-time world champions were pushed to the limit by a disciplined and energetic Japan side, who stunned Brazil in the first half through Kaishu Sano’s well-taken strike in the 29th minute.
That goal exposed early defensive lapses and forced Carlo Ancelotti’s side into a difficult position heading into the break.
Brazil responded after half-time with greater intensity and control, eventually finding an equaliser through Casemiro himself in the 56th minute. T
he midfielder rose to meet a well-delivered cross from Gabriel Magalhães, heading powerfully beyond goalkeeper Zion Suzuki to restore parity and swing momentum back in Brazil’s favour.
Despite dominating possession and registering 19 shots compared to Japan’s five, Brazil were forced to wait until stoppage time for the decisive moment.
Substitute Gabriel Martinelli struck in the 95th minute after a quick transition involving Bruno Guimarães, sealing a dramatic victory that keeps Brazil’s World Cup ambitions firmly alive.
After the match, Casemiro emphasised that Brazil’s strength lies not only in their starting XI but in the collective mentality of the entire squad.
“The team’s greatest strength was our mindset,” said the former Real Madrid and Manchester United midfielder who seems set to join Inter Miami this summer.
“We kept up the pressure in our attacking play. In a World Cup, it is crucial to value the players coming off the bench. Endrick came on and played very well today, Martinelli is another great player, and Rayan has been replacing Raphinha really well. That’s the spirit, and this is the squad to win the World Cup.”
Casemiro also highlighted the importance of squad unity in navigating the pressures of knockout football, where games can be decided by small margins and late moments of quality.
Brazil’s ability to respond after conceding first also ended a long-standing concern, with this victory marking their first World Cup knockout comeback win after falling behind since their 2002 title-winning campaign.
The midfielder’s leadership was central throughout the match, not only through his goal but also in stabilising Brazil’s midfield during Japan’s high-intensity pressing spells.
The result ensures Brazil progress to the last 16, where expectations will only grow as they continue their pursuit of a record sixth World Cup title. However, Casemiro insisted the focus remains on collective belief rather than external pressure.
For now, Brazil can reflect on a testing but valuable victory — one that required resilience, depth, and a late flash of brilliance to overcome a Japan side who pushed them further than many expected.
