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The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage continues as Brazil takes on Japan in a high-stakes Round of 32 showdown.
Brazil advanced to the knockout rounds after finishing atop its group and once again enters the tournament’s elimination phase as one of the favorites to lift the trophy. Japan, meanwhile, earned its place with an impressive group-stage campaign and will look to continue its reputation as one of international soccer’s most dangerous underdogs.
Led by stars such as Vinícius Júnior, Marquinhos, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Daichi Kamada, this matchup features two talented squads with contrasting styles. Brazil will rely on its attacking flair and experience, while Japan hopes its organization, discipline, and quick transitions can produce another memorable World Cup upset.
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Brazil Predicted Starting Lineup
Brazil is expected to deploy an attack-minded lineup filled with world-class talent across every position.
Alisson starts in goal behind a back four of Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, and Douglas. Marquinhos provides leadership and composure in central defense, while Danilo and Douglas are expected to contribute on both ends of the pitch from the full-back positions.
In midfield, Casemiro anchors the center alongside Bruno Guimarães and Lucas Paquetá. Casemiro provides defensive stability, while Guimarães and Paquetá offer creativity and ball progression to support Brazil’s dangerous attack.
Leading the front three are Rayan, Matheus Cunha, and Vinícius Júnior. Vinícius remains Brazil’s biggest attacking threat with his pace and dribbling ability, while Cunha’s movement and Rayan’s direct running add further firepower.
- GK: Alisson
- RB: Danilo
- CB: Marquinhos
- CB: Gabriel
- LB: Douglas
- CM: Casemiro
- CM: Bruno Guimarães
- CM: Lucas Paquetá
- RW: Rayan
- ST: Matheus Cunha
- LW: Vinícius Júnior
Japan Predicted Starting Lineup
Japan is expected to line up with a disciplined, technically gifted squad capable of frustrating even the world’s top teams.
Zion Suzuki starts in goal behind a back three consisting of Hiroki Ito, Shogo Taniguchi, and Takehiro Tomiyasu. Tomiyasu anchors the defense with his versatility and experience, while Ito and Taniguchi provide composure in possession.
In midfield, Ritsu Doan and Keito Nakamura operate in the wide areas, with Ao Tanaka and Kaishu Sano controlling the center of the pitch. Their work rate and organization allow Japan to transition quickly from defense into attack.
Further forward, Junya Ito and Daichi Kamada are expected to create chances behind striker Ayase Ueda. Kamada’s vision and Ito’s pace give Japan multiple avenues going forward, while Ueda provides a consistent goal-scoring presence.
- GK: Zion Suzuki
- CB: Hiroki Ito
- CB: Shogo Taniguchi
- CB: Takehiro Tomiyasu
- RM: Ritsu Doan
- CM: Ao Tanaka
- CM: Kaishu Sano
- LM: Keito Nakamura
- AM: Junya Ito
- AM: Daichi Kamada
- ST: Ayase Ueda
Team News & Key Absences
Brazil enters the Round of 32 with a largely healthy squad and one of the deepest rosters remaining in the tournament. Vinícius Júnior continues to lead the attack, while Casemiro and Marquinhos provide veteran leadership through the spine of the team.
Japan also arrives with the majority of its preferred starters available. Tomiyasu remains the leader at the back, while Kamada, Doan, and Ito will be counted on to create opportunities against one of the tournament favorites.
Both teams are expected to field near full-strength lineups for this win-or-go-home matchup.
Match Outlook & Resources
Brazil enters the knockout stage as the favorite thanks to its depth, experience, and attacking quality. With playmakers throughout the lineup and a defense anchored by Marquinhos and Alisson, Brazil possesses the balance needed to make another deep World Cup run.
Japan has consistently shown it can compete with elite opposition by remaining organized defensively and capitalizing on transition opportunities. If the Blue Samurai can limit Brazil’s space in the attacking third and remain clinical in front of goal, they have the ability to make this a highly competitive contest.
With a place in the World Cup quarterfinals on the line, expect an intense and entertaining knockout-round battle between two of the tournament’s most talented sides.
AP Images/Silvia Izquierdo
