29 June,2026 09:47 AM IST | Houston | Agencies
Brazil players celebrate a goal vs Scotland recently. Pic/AFP
Brazil and Japan battle for a place in the round of 16 when they meet each other in the FIFA World Cup last 32 clash at NRG Stadium here on Monday.
Brazil arrive as Group C winners but face a Japanese side that has steadily built a reputation for upsetting football's traditional powerhouses through tactical discipline, relentless work rate, and clinical transitions.
Brazil topped their group with seven points after an unbeaten campaign. The Samurai Blue enter the knockout contest unbeaten as well.
History slightly favours Brazil, who have won three of the last five meetings between the two nations. However, Japan claimed a memorable 3-2 friendly victory in their most recent encounter in October 2025, a result that should give them confidence heading into this high-stakes knockout showdown.
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu said his team will take confidence from that win. "Last time we proved to Brazil that we aren't a pushover," Moriyasu said.
"That is great progress for us. The Brazilian team is a top team in the world and we greatly respect them.
"In the match we don't know what is going to happen. We will have a chance to win as well," he added. With both sides unbeaten in the tournament and carrying genuine momentum, an absorbing contest awaits in Houston.
2006
The year Brazil last faced Japan at the FIFA World Cup, winning 4-1
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