Daijiworld Media Network - Houston

Houston, Jun 30: Brazil booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Japan in Houston, United States, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring a dramatic late winner.

The five-time champions appeared to be heading into extra time after a closely fought Round of 32 clash, but Martinelli, who came on as a second-half substitute, struck in the sixth minute of stoppage time to seal Brazil’s progression.

Brazil will now face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the Round of 16 on Sunday in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Meanwhile, Paraguay produced a historic upset by defeating Germany 4-3 on penalties after their Round of 32 match ended 1-1 after extra time.

The defeat marked Germany’s first-ever loss in a World Cup penalty shootout.

Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill played a key role in the victory by making two crucial saves during the shootout, while Jose Canale scored the decisive sudden-death penalty to send his team into the next round.

Paraguay had taken the lead during regular time when Julio Enciso scored with a header late in the first half. Germany responded in the 52nd minute through Kai Havertz, but neither side could find another goal before the penalty shootout.