FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil vs Japan Preview – Vinicius Junior Leads Selecao into Tricky Round of 32 Clash

Five-time world champions Brazil continue their quest for World Cup glory as they face an in-form Japan in one of the standout Round of 32 fixtures at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Carlo Ancelotti's side recovered brilliantly from a disappointing 1-1 draw with Morocco in their tournament opener, responding with convincing 3-0 victories over Haiti and Scotland to finish top of Group C. Inspired by the outstanding performances of Vinicius Junior and Matheus Cunha, Brazil head into the knockout stage with growing confidence and momentum.

The Selecao have now won five of their last six matches in all competitions and arrive with back-to-back clean sheets after tightening up defensively following a shaky start to the tournament. Brazil have not failed to reach the World Cup knockout stage since 1982 and are once again among the favorites to lift the famous trophy.

However, Japan present a dangerous challenge. Hajime Moriyasu's side have quietly built an impressive reputation over the past year, recording memorable results against several elite nations, including a historic 3-2 victory over Brazil in an international friendly and a win over England.

Japan advanced to the Round of 32 after finishing second in Group F. The Samurai Blue remained unbeaten in the group stage, earning a draw against the Netherlands before recording a victory and another hard-fought draw against Sweden. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki played a crucial role in securing qualification with several outstanding saves.

Defensively, Japan have been among the tournament's strongest teams, conceding only three goals across their last six international matches. However, history remains against them, as they have never won a men's FIFA World Cup knockout match despite reaching the Round of 16 on four previous occasions.

Brazil will know they cannot underestimate the Asian side, especially after suffering a rare defeat against Japan in their most recent meeting.

Team News

Brazil remain without Barcelona winger Raphinha, who continues his recovery from a hamstring injury suffered during the victory over Haiti. Carlo Ancelotti is expected to retain the same starting lineup that comfortably defeated Scotland.

Young winger Rayan is set to continue alongside the red-hot Vinicius Junior, who has scored in every group-stage match of the tournament. The Real Madrid star joins an exclusive list of Brazilian legends—including Jairzinho, Romário, Ronaldo and Rivaldo—to achieve that feat at a World Cup.

Japan have been handed encouraging news regarding defender Ko Itakura, whose injury against Sweden is not believed to be serious, making him available for selection.

The bigger concern surrounds Takefusa Kubo, who continues to struggle with a knee problem and is unlikely to feature. Daizen Maeda is expected to retain his place in attack after scoring in the final group-stage match, while Kaishu Sano should return to strengthen midfield.

Match Prediction

Japan possess excellent organization, discipline and counter-attacking quality, making them one of the tournament's surprise packages. However, Brazil's experience, attacking depth and individual brilliance should prove decisive over 90 minutes.

If Vinicius Junior maintains his outstanding form, the Selecao will be strong favorites to book their place in the Round of 16.

Prediction: Brazil 2-0 Japan.