Matheus Cunha brutally taunts Japan after dramatic World Cup round of 32 win

After breaking Japanese hearts with a thrilling stoppage-time winner courtesy of Gabriel Martinelli, Brazil's Matheus Cunha didn't hold back in brutally mocking opposition fans at full-time.

In arguably the game of the World Cup so far, Brazil and Japan set the knockout stage alive with a toe-to-toe affair.

Touted as this year's 'dark horse', and injury-stricken Japan impressed through the group stages, thrashing Tunisia and remaining undefeated with goal-happy draws against European heavyweights Netherlands and Sweden.

An unfortunate draw, though, put them in the eyeline of Brazil, making for a mouthwatering fixture in the Round of 32, a stage in which an exit would be a bitter shock for both teams.

Japan fancied themselves an upset, and began a war of words before the game as Kento Shiogai claimed that they are not the giants that they once were.

“[Brazil] used to be strong, but what about now? I have the image that France is strong. Argentina too. About Brazil, I haven’t heard much lately," he said, before targeting their iconic talisman.

"That was the old Neymar, right? It’s not the old Neymar anymore. I think we’re in good shape now.”

The comments riled Brazil, with Marquinhos labeling it 'arrogance' as he insisted that they are still one of the 'greats'.

An early Japanese goal put the Asian representatives on the cusp of a huge shock, but having historically failed to hold leads in World Cup knockouts, an equalizer soon followed from a Casemiro header.

Martinelli sank the Japanese players to their knees with a 93rd-minute winner, and the celebrations followed.

Matheus Cunha mocks Japan fans after last-minute winner

Moments after Brazil slammed home the winner on the brink of the full-time whistle, Matheus Cunha was spotted clashing with fans as he held up five fingers to the traveling supporters.

The signal was followed by a verbal taunt as he shouted, 'I have five', indicating the superiority of Brazil in the World Cup with their five tournament wins.

The Manchester United man was pulled back by Brazil staff as he continued to celebrate.

There was a heartwarming moment between Cunha and fellow Premier League player Ao Tanaka, as the Brazilian sought out the Leeds United midfielder, who was in floods of tears at full-time.

The Japanese midfielder has been one of the leading performers in the World Cup so far, and Cunha was clearly impressed, urging his opponent to keep his head held high.

Although they haven't been at their best so far, Brazil became the second team to book their place in the Round of 16 following Canada's win over South Africa.

Brazil will now face the winner of the match between Norway and Ivory Coast, with a potential England match looming in the Quarter-Finals if both teams continue winning.