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.
Brazil looked stronger with every game. Vinícius Júnior scored in all three group matches, while Matheus Cunha has settled well as the central striker. Neymar returned with a brief substitute appearance against Scotland after recovering from a calf 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
DEF
- Danilo
- Marquinhos
- Gabriel Magalhães
- Douglas Santos
MID
ATT
- Rayan
- Lucas Paquetá
- Vinícius Júnior
ST
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
DEF
- Hiroki Ito
- Takehiro Tomiyasu
- Koki Machida (or Ko Itakura if declared fit)
MID
- Yukinari Sugawara
- Ao Tanaka
- Joel Chima Fujita
- Keito Nakamura
ATT
ST
This reflects the current injury situation, while accounting for uncertainty surrounding Itakura and Kubo.
Prediction
Brazil -3/4