Five-time world champions Brazil begin their FIFA World Cup knockout campaign on Monday with a challenging Round of 32 encounter against an unbeaten Japan at Houston Stadium, with a place in the last 16 on the line.
The winner of the tie will advance to face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the Round of 16, making this one of the most intriguing fixtures of the opening knockout round.
Brazil hitting top gear
Brazil recovered impressively after opening their World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Morocco. Carlo Ancelotti’s side responded with convincing 3-0 victories over Haiti and Scotland to finish top of Group C, displaying the attacking fluency expected from the tournament favourites.
Vinicius Junior has emerged as Brazil’s standout performer, while Matheus Cunha has added crucial goals as the Selecao gradually found their rhythm. Their improved performances have restored confidence that Brazil can challenge for a record-extending sixth World Cup title.
There is also encouraging news regarding Neymar. The veteran forward returned from a calf injury with a brief substitute appearance against Scotland, and Ancelotti has revealed he expects the 34-year-old to play a bigger role against Japan after completing another week of recovery.
Japan eye another giant-killing act
Japan arrive in Houston full of confidence after navigating Group F unbeaten. The Samurai Blue have once again demonstrated the tactical discipline, relentless work rate and quick transitions that have become their trademark under Hajime Moriyasu.
Their campaign included an impressive seven goals during the group stage, while their organized defensive structure has made them one of the most difficult teams to break down in the tournament.
Brazil are also mindful of recent history. Japan defeated the South Americans 3-2 in an international friendly last October, a result Ancelotti admitted offered valuable lessons ahead of Monday’s knockout meeting.
Tactical battle
Brazil are expected to dominate possession through their technically gifted midfield, with Vinicius Junior’s pace and Cunha’s movement posing constant threats in the final third.
Japan, meanwhile, will likely rely on compact defending, high pressing and rapid counter-attacks through their energetic wide players. If they can frustrate Brazil during the opening stages, the pressure could gradually shift onto the tournament favourites. (Sofascore)
Ancelotti has also emphasized the importance of mental strength, warning that knockout football demands teams be prepared for extra time and even penalties if necessary. (Reuters)
Head-to-head
Historically, Brazil have enjoyed the upper hand, losing only once in 14 meetings against Japan. However, recent encounters have been far more competitive, suggesting Monday’s clash could be much closer than previous World Cup meetings.
Players to watch
Brazil: Vinicius Junior, Neymar, Matheus Cunha
Japan: Daichi Kamada, Ritsu Doan, Ayase Ueda
Prediction
Brazil enter the contest as favourites thanks to their superior attacking quality and growing momentum, but Japan possess the organization and tactical discipline to make life extremely difficult. Expect a tightly contested knockout affair before Brazil’s individual brilliance ultimately proves decisive.
Prediction: Brazil 2-1 Japan.
