Early exchanges and Japan’s breakthrough
The World Cup 2026 last 32 fixture between Brazil and Japan saw an early yellow card issued to Sano for a foul on Vini Jr. Brazil began to string passes together, with Danilo making a run down the right, though the resulting shot from Guimaraes hit Paqueta. Japan also had moments in the Brazilian half, with Junya Ito and Doan working to double-mark Vini Jr.
Despite Brazil having more possession, with 74% of the ball and four out of five shots, Japan’s defence remained resolute. Manager Moriyasu appeared content with his team’s performance in the initial stages. The match saw a significant moment when Sano scored his first international goal, breaking through the midfield and drilling a right-foot shot into the far corner, putting Japan ahead.
Sano’s goal came after a period of midfield play, where he bypassed Casemiro before finding the net. This goal ignited the game, with Brazil responding with increased urgency. Vini Jr, despite being marked by three defenders, managed to drift inside and take a shot from the D, which was saved.
Brazil’s response and tactical shifts
Brazil intensified their play, exhibiting quick passes and flicks, resembling the intensity of a game’s final minutes. However, Japan’s defence held firm, with Doan, who had previously played as a forward, demonstrating a strong defensive effort as a second right-back. Casemiro experienced a difficult moment when Maeda dispossessed him, though the threat was ultimately contained.
There was a brief disagreement between Lucas Paqueta and Matheus Cunha regarding runs. Cunha later managed a shot, but it was easily handled. Brazil’s Vini Jr. continued to be a focal point, with Takehiro Tomiyasu tasked with containing him. Earlier in the match, Guimaraes had a half-chance, curling a shot from the edge of the box that led to a corner, and another shot from him followed, indicating Brazil’s persistent attacking efforts.
Japan’s tactical approach, with their pace and intensity on the counter-attack, could pose challenges for Brazil, who are reportedly still seeking their optimal formation. Japan has demonstrated strong form, having lost only two of their last 28 international matches. This includes a 3-2 friendly victory against Brazil in October 2025, and they are currently unbeaten in ten matches.
Player performances and match context
Several players have been highlighted for their potential impact. Ayase Ueda, who scored the winning goal against Brazil last October, has been in strong form, contributing two goals and an assist in Japan’s matchday-two win over Tunisia. Ueda also scored 25 Eredivisie goals for Feyenoord and struck twice in the 4-0 group win over Tunisia.
For Brazil, Vini Jr. has been a key offensive player, scoring four goals from eight shots on target in Group C matches against Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland. Bruno Guimaraes has also been instrumental, setting up three of Brazil’s seven goals in the group stage and providing seven assists for Newcastle in 2025-26. Danilo, Brazil’s right-back, committed five fouls in three Group C matches, facing dangerous wide players from Japan.
Keito Nakamura, Japan’s wing-back, scored against the Netherlands on matchday one and has registered five shots in three World Cup starts. Ritsu Doan, a winger for Japan, accumulated eight yellow cards for club and country in 2025-26, including bookings against Brazil and Scotland. Brazil had a 1-1 draw with Morocco in their World Cup opener.
The match is being closely watched, with some anticipating a stern test for Brazil. The atmosphere was set with the anthems, including the Brazilian earworm, with manager Ancelotti participating. The All-England Lawn Tennis Club reportedly declined to show the World Cup on their big screen.
In other football news, Manchester City has confirmed Enzo Maresca as their new manager.
The match continues to unfold, with Japan’s goal marking a significant moment in the contest.
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Source: theguardian.com
Daniel Fairbrother is the Senior Football Correspondent at Latest News UK, covering the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side with over a decade of reporting experience. He spent eight years on the football desk of a Yorkshire daily before moving into national coverage. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Sunderland and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Leeds, he watches non-league football and runs a five-a-side league. “The best football stories are won in the week, not on the whistle.”