Brazil Meets Japan in World Cup Round of 32 in Houston

Brazil plays Japan in the round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday at Houston Stadium. The five-time world champions reached the knockout stage after finishing first in Group C. They recorded a 1-1 draw with Morocco, followed by 3-0 wins over Haiti and Scotland.

Jr scored four of Brazil's seven group-stage goals, while Matheus Cunha added three. Bruno Guimaraes recorded three assists. "We need a lot of things: A strong mind, a strong heart, a clear mind," he told reporters.

Japan advanced from Group F after a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, a 4-0 win over Tunisia, and a 1-1 draw with Sweden. Ayase Ueda and Daichi Kamada each scored two goals. Coach Hajime Moriyasu said the squad remains united. "All the players will do what they can for the team and contribute," he stated.

Raphinha is sidelined for Brazil with a hamstring injury. Neymar is available after returning from a calf issue. Takefusa Kubo is out for Japan with a knee sprain. The winner will face either Norway or the Ivory Coast in the round of 16. The match airs on FOX and Telemundo in the United States.