Brazil take on Japan in the second knockout-stage match of the 2026 World Cup in Houston. The Selecao have been tipped to go deep, but Japan could prove a tricky opponent. Brazil recovered from a 1-1 draw with Morocco to beat Haiti and Scotland 3-0, but this test matches their opener. Japan held Netherlands 2-2, thrashed Tunisia 4-0, and drew 1-1 with Sweden, thanks to goalkeeper Zion Suzuki's saves. Japan will defend but can hurt Brazil.
Previous Meeting and Team News
When these teams met in October, Japan won 3-2 despite Brazil missing key players. A second-place Group F finish set up this rematch. Brazil are unchanged from their Scotland win, with Raphinha sidelined. Japan make three changes from the Sweden draw: Tomiyasu, Taniguchi and Sano start.
Confirmed Lineups
Brazil XI: Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel; Douglas Santos; Casemiro, B. Guimarães, Paquetá; Rayan, Cunha, Vinicius
Japan XI: Suzuki; Tomiyasu, Taniguchi, Itō; Dōan, Sano, Kamada, Nakamura; Maeda, Itō; Ueda
Match Atmosphere and Manager Comments
Kick-off is near in a party atmosphere. Brazil's anthem played to a lively crowd. Coach Ancelotti dismissed mind games: "I won't repeat what others say. We're focused on the match, on the opponent's qualities, on preparing well to avoid problems." He added, "We're not doing what they call in England 'mind games.'"
Odds and Predictions
Bookies favor Brazil at 8/11, with draw at 5/2 and Japan at 15/4 (Boyle Sports). Despite the odds, Japan's recent win and defensive strength make this no foregone conclusion.
