Brazil begin the knockout stage against one of Asia’s strongest sides after winning Group C unbeaten. Japan progressed from a difficult Group F and now aim to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history. Carlo Ancelotti has stressed that Brazil expect a very difficult match, particularly after Japan beat Brazil in a friendly last year. Neymar is also expected to play a larger role after returning from injury.

Japan remained unbeaten in one of the toughest groups, showing tactical flexibility and strong attacking play through Daichi Kamada and Ayase Ueda.

🇧🇷 Brazil Probable XI (4-2-3-1)

GK

• Alisson

DEF

• Danilo
• Marquinhos
• Gabriel Magalhães
• Douglas Santos

MID

• Casemiro
• Bruno Guimarães

ATT

• Rayan
• Lucas Paquetá
• Vinícius Júnior

ST

• Matheus Cunha

Neymar is expected to come off the bench unless Ancelotti decides he is ready for a longer start after his recovery.

🇯🇵 Japan Probable XI (3-4-2-1)

GK

• Zion Suzuki

DEF

• Hiroki Ito
• Takehiro Tomiyasu
• Koki Machida (or Ko Itakura if declared fit)

MID

• Yukinari Sugawara
• Ao Tanaka
• Joel Chima Fujita
• Keito Nakamura

ATT

• Ritsu Doan
• Daichi Kamada

ST

• Ayase Ueda

This reflects the current injury situation, while accounting for uncertainty surrounding Itakura and Kubo.

Prediction

You'll Never Walk Alone
dragonson

Good luck👍😀