Brazil Silence Japan as Casemiro and Martinelli Complete Stunning World Cup Comeback

Nobody should ever write Brazil off.

According to the official team news, Neymar started on the bench against Japan. Before the match, Japan striker Kento Shiogai claimed Brazil were no longer the team they used to be and believed his country could win.

Marquinhos did not stay quiet.

According to his pre-match comments, the Brazil captain said those words would only motivate his team. He also suggested it was arrogant to think Brazil were no longer a great football nation.

At first, Japan looked right.

They scored the opening goal and went into half-time leading 1-0. Brazil looked frustrated, and Carlo Ancelotti had a huge job to do.

Then everything changed.

According to the match reports, Endrick came off the bench as Brazil searched for a way back into the game.

Soon after, 34-year-old Casemiro stepped up.

The veteran midfielder scored the equaliser and reminded everyone why experience still matters. According to Opta, Casemiro is now Brazil's second-oldest goalscorer in World Cup history.

But Brazil were not finished.

In the 95th minute, Gabriel Martinelli scored the winner to complete an incredible comeback and send Brazil into the Round of 16.

According to Opta, Martinelli's goal is the latest winning goal ever scored in normal time in a World Cup knockout match.

Japan's brave performance deserved more, but football can be cruel.

The bigger debate is now impossible to ignore.

Neymar started on the bench, Brazil still won, and Vinicius, Martinelli, Endrick and the new generation continue to shine.

Has Brazil already moved into a new era, or should Neymar return to the starting lineup for the next round?

One thing is certain.

Never tell Brazil they are finished.