Japan is set to challenge South American giant Brazil in a crucial World Cup round-of-32 match scheduled for Monday afternoon in Houston. Despite entering the game as underdogs, Japan draws confidence from their 3-2 comeback victory over Brazil in a friendly held in Tokyo last October.
However, Japan faces a significant blow as their key forward, Takefusa Kubo, will miss the match. Known as the “Japanese Messi,” Kubo has been sidelined due to a knee meniscus injury sustained during Japan’s opening match against the Netherlands, preventing his participation in this vital fixture.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s preparations appear unaffected by Kubo’s absence. Nineteen-year-old Brazilian forward Rayan admitted unfamiliarity with Japan’s squad ahead of the last-16 encounter. When asked about Japan’s top player, Rayan responded that he would need to review footage to identify key opponents, emphasizing Brazil’s respect for Japan’s strength and their commitment to perform at their best.
Brazil’s coach Carlo Ancelotti, however, remains wary of Japan’s striker Ayase Ueda. Ueda, who has scored 18 international goals, was the match-winner in Japan’s previous victory over Brazil and shares the top scorer spot for Japan in this tournament alongside Daichi Kamada, each with two goals.
Japan advanced to the knockout stage by finishing second in Group F, securing one win and two draws. Although the Samurai Blue have reached the World Cup knockout rounds for the third consecutive tournament, they have yet to progress beyond the last 16.
“Brazil are always among the favorites with a strong chance to win,” Japan’s coach Hajime Moriyasu acknowledged on Sunday. “Many see us as underdogs, and we accept that. We respect Brazil, but like last year, few believed we could win. We have another opportunity to make history.”
Brazil enters the match in excellent form after topping Group C. Following a draw with Morocco in their opener, Ancelotti’s side secured 3-0 victories against Haiti and Scotland. Forwards Vinícius Júnior and Matheus Cunha have scored all seven of Brazil’s goals so far, supported by midfielder Bruno Guimarães.
Brazil’s squad has also been strengthened by the return of veteran forward Neymar, who made a brief 15-minute appearance against Scotland after recovering from a calf injury. He may play a more prominent role against Japan.
“We are not perfect and still have room for improvement, but I am pleased with the team’s progress since the first match,” Ancelotti said. “Now that we are in the knockout stage, we must demonstrate determination.”
