Five-time champions Brazil have a tricky test on their hands as the World Cup knockouts continue in Houston.
Japan were impressive in finishing second in Group F behind the Netherlands, while Brazil roll into the knockout rounds having topped Group C.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side has looked fluid in attack, heavily relying on the explosive form of Vinicius Junior. The Real Madrid superstar has already notched four goals in the tournament, making him the definitive spearhead of a front line that also features the dangerous Raphinha and Matheus Cunha.
“I had no doubts about how he would be coming into this World Cup,” said Ancelotti of the 25-year-old.
“For him it is an honour to play for the national team. He is playing well and he even scored a header against Scotland, which is very rare for him.
“I knew all about what Vini could do. He is one of the best players in the world.”
Japan’s path to the Round of 32 has been equally impressive.
In a dramatic international friendly late last year, Japan shocked the South American giants with a 3-2 comeback victory, turning around a 2-0 half-time deficit thanks to second-half strikes from Takumi Minamino, Keito Nakamura, and Ayase Ueda.
History favours Brazil but don’t count out Japan for this one – even though they are yet to win a knockout match at the World Cup.
Team news for Brazil v Japan
As ever, all eyes will be on Neymar. The veteran came on against Scotland after recovering from injury for his first Brazil appearance in nearly 1000 days.
He will be on the bench again, we expect, despite Barcelona’s Raphinha being a doubt with a hamstring injury.
Japan have doubts over defender Ko Itakura and Takefusa Kubo.
Predicted line-ups for Brazil v Japan
Brazil: Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Santos; Guimaraes, Casemiro; Rayan, Paqueta, Vinicius Jr; Cunha
Japan: Suzuki; Ito, Tomiyasu, Itakura; Doan, Sano, Tanaka, Nakamura; Kamada, Maeda; Ueda
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