Gabriel Martinelli says he knew another chance would come after scoring Brazil’s late World Cup winner against Japan, giving Arsenal a timely confidence boost from their winger.
The Arsenal forward came off the bench to score the decisive goal in Brazil’s 2-1 last-32 win, sending Carlo Ancelotti’s side through after a tense knockout tie in Houston.
Reuters reported that Martinelli struck deep in stoppage time after Japan had taken a first-half lead through Kaishu Sano before Casemiro levelled for Brazil. The goal keeps Brazil alive and gives Mikel Arteta another reminder of Martinelli’s big-moment threat.
Speaking after the match, Martinelli said: “I was telling my family the other day that I’d hit the post. I knew I was going to get another opportunity. Thank God, today I managed to score the goal that secured qualification.”
That line matters for Arsenal because it speaks to more than the finish. Martinelli has had to manage spells of frustration, transfer noise and questions around his long-term role, but this was a sharp reminder of his resilience.
Martinelli Sends Arteta A Timely Reminder
Martinelli added: “I’m very happy with the performance from the whole team, who gave absolutely everything throughout the match. I’m speechless.”
Read Arsenal has already assessed why Martinelli’s late Brazil winner gives Arsenal a World Cup lift, and his post-match reaction only sharpens that point.
For Arteta, the value is clear. Martinelli has returned to the spotlight with a goal that carried pressure, timing and emotional weight.
That does not settle Arsenal’s attacking plans on its own, but it gives the club a stronger version of the player to evaluate. Whether he stays central to the project or becomes part of a bigger summer decision, Martinelli has reminded everyone that he can still change elite games.
Brazil needed a late intervention. Arsenal may have just received one too.
