FAB BY GAB

Martinelli is the late, late hero to avoid mega upset

- FROM JEREMY CROSS in Houston

BRAZIL overcame a major problem in Houston - to avoid what would have been one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history.

The five-time winners had been in danger of heading home to a nation in mourning, following Kaishu Sano's first-half strike.

But Japan were denied their moment in the setting sun, thanks to a stunning comeback from Carlo Ancelotti’s men.

Former Manchester United midfielder Casemiro led the fight-back with an equalising header from Gabriel's cross.

Before substitute Gabriel Martinelli completed the escape in stoppage time, to settle a thumping game and keep alive Brazil’s hopes of conquering the world for the first time since 2002.

And no one was more relieved than Ancelotti.