FAB BY GAB

Martinelli is the late, late hero as Brazil avoid massive 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 fightback with an equalising header from Gabriel's cross.

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

And no one was more relieved than Ancelotti.