Brazil vs Japan | FIFA World Cup 2026 — Round of 32 | Preview and Predictions

This is a blockbuster knockout encounter in the Round of 32 that will feature South American heavyweights Brazil and Asian giants Japan on 29th June at the Houston Stadium in the USA. The two met in the RO16 in the previous edition where Brazil edged out Japan 1-0  to reach the quarter-finals.  

For the game, here we present our preview and prediction.

FIFA WC26 | Round of 32: BRA vs JPN| 22:30 IST, June 29, 2026

Brazil came through their group with considerable ease, drawing their opening game against Morocco and winning the other two comfortably. Their last group stage game was against Scotland which they won emphatically. After the underwhelming performance in the opening game, Brazil’s attack came to life, scoring six goals in the remaining two games. Vinicius Junior and Matheus Cunha were the stars of the show in both games. Brazil’s defence hasn’t been talked about much but they have conceded just one goal in the group stage. Carlo Ancelotti’s team has clicked into gear and now pose a genuine threat for any opponent.

As for Japan, the Samurai Blue started the tournament with a 2-2 feisty draw with Netherlands and then annihilated Tunisia in the second game to put one foot in the door for RO32 qualification. They drew against Sweden in their final fixture to assure another  knockout stage appearance at the World Cup. This is a very tough draw for them and with a couple of key injuries, Japan looks a little weak in terms of team strength. However, they make up for their weaknesses with their intent, passion and relentless work-rate. They are also a very well-coached team. 

Raphinha has been ruled out for this game due to a hamstring injury for Brazil while Takefusa Kubo will be out for a while with a sprained knee. 

The Selecão are definite contenders for the World Cup and came into their own as the group stage progressed. Japan has played well but they have looked vulnerable in defence, having conceded against the big teams in the group. Brazil also possesses the more dangerous players upfront, especially with Vini Jr. and Cunha in great form, Japan will have a massive task on their hands. 

Knockout games are generally cagey encounters and we believe this one would be a tightly drawn affair as well. Brazil has the superior head-to-head record and Japan is missing several key players. Hence, our prediction would be a narrow Brazil win, unfortunately knocking out Japan yet again. 

Score Prediction: Brazil 2-1 Japan 

Venue: Houston Stadium, Texas, USA