Brazil faces Japan in 2026 World Cup round‑of‑16 match

Brazil and Japan will meet in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the fixture set for Houston on Monday. Brazil, coached by Carlo Ancelotti, enter the knockout stage after two group‑stage victories, while Japan, led by Hajime Moriyasu, remain unbeaten with one win, one draw and a loss.

Moriyasu said he will decide the penalty‑takers if the game goes to a shoot‑out, stating, "If the match goes to penalties I will choose the takers." Japan will be without forward Takefusa Kubota, who suffered a torn meniscus, and will rely on players such as Daichi Kamada and Ritsu Doan. Brazil’s lineup features Vinícius Júnior and a strong midfield.

Other round‑of‑16 matches on the same day include Germany vs Paraguay in Boston and the Netherlands vs Morocco in Monterrey.