KLIK SAJA - One of the most highly anticipated fixtures in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 will see five-time champions Brazil take on Japan on Monday night.
The match, set to be played at NRG Stadium in Houston, pits Group C winners Brazil against Group F runners-up Japan. The winner will advance to the Round of 16, where either Ivory Coast or Norway awaits.
Brazil's campaign began on a disappointing note with a 1-1 draw against Morocco in their Group C opener.
However, the Seleção responded emphatically, recording back-to-back 3-0 victories over Haiti and Scotland.
Inspired by the outstanding performances of Vinicius Junior and Matheus Cunha, Carlo Ancelotti's side secured top spot in the group, edging Morocco on goal difference despite finishing level on points.
Brazil have not failed to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup since 1982. Their current path could potentially lead to a blockbuster semi-final showdown against defending champions and South American rivals Argentina.
For now, though, Brazil's full attention remains on Japan.
Ancelotti's men have found their rhythm at the perfect time, winning five of their last six matches after managing just five victories in their previous 12 games.
The Seleção have also kept consecutive clean sheets after conceding in each of their previous six matches before defeating Haiti.
Nevertheless, Brazil still remember their last meeting with Japan all too well.
Without defensive pillars Gabriel Magalhães and Marquinhos, Brazil suffered a surprising 3-2 defeat to Japan in an international friendly last October. The victory marked Japan's first-ever win over Brazil after 14 previous encounters.
That memorable triumph was one of several impressive results achieved by Hajime Moriyasu's side in recent years.
During 2026, Japan also defeated England and earned a draw against the Netherlands, strengthening their reputation as one of the tournament's most dangerous dark horses.
Despite those achievements, Japan had to settle for second place in Group F after a 1-1 draw with Sweden on June 25.