Matheus Cunha playfully teases Japan after an exciting World Cup round of 32 win
After a thrilling last-minute goal by Gabriel Martinelli that broke Japanese hearts, Brazil’s Matheus Cunha didn’t hold back and cheekily teased the opposing fans right after the final whistle.
This match between Brazil and Japan might just be the best game of the World Cup so far, with both teams going head-to-head in an exciting knockout round.
Japan, seen as this year’s surprise team and battling some injuries, impressed in the group stage. They beat Tunisia and earned draws against strong European teams like the Netherlands and Sweden, scoring lots of goals along the way.
However, the draw paired them against Brazil in the Round of 32, making for a super exciting clash where an upset would shock many.
Before the game, Japan’s Kento Shiogai wasn’t shy about saying Brazil isn’t as strong as before. He said, “Brazil used to be strong, but now it feels like France and Argentina are the top teams. Brazil? I haven’t heard much lately.” He even mentioned Neymar, saying, “That was the old Neymar. This team is different now.”
Brazil didn’t like these comments. Marquinhos called them “arrogant” and reminded everyone that Brazil is still one of the biggest football powers.
Japan started strong, scoring an early goal and almost pulling off a huge upset. But with Brazil’s history of coming back in knockout matches, Casemiro soon headed in an equalizer.
Then, in the 93rd minute, Martinelli scored the winning goal that left the Japanese players stunned and sent Brazil into wild celebration.
Right after the goal, Matheus Cunha got into a bit of a moment with Japanese fans, holding up five fingers and shouting “I have five” — showing Brazil’s pride in their five World Cup victories.
Staff had to step in to calm Cunha down as he kept celebrating.
Despite the tension, there was a touching moment when Cunha found Japan’s Ao Tanaka, who was crying after the loss. Cunha encouraged him to stay strong, clearly respecting his skills.
Even though Brazil hasn’t been perfect so far, they’re now the second team to secure a spot in the Round of 16, after Canada’s win over South Africa.
Next up, Brazil will face the winner of Norway vs Ivory Coast, with a possible exciting showdown against England in the Quarter-Finals if both teams keep winning.