Brazil's Matheus Cunha makes five‑champion gesture after Japan forward's remarks

During the World Cup 2026 round of 32 match in which Brazil defeated Japan 2‑1, Japanese 21‑year‑old forward Kento Shio sparked controversy by questioning Brazil's current strength, saying the team was not what it once was. The comment provoked anger among Brazilian players and fans.

After the game, Brazil striker Matheus Cunha responded on the field, raising five fingers to allude to Brazil’s five World Cup titles and later posted a message on social media defending the team. Shio, faced with criticism and a backlash on social media, said he would not withdraw his remarks, maintaining that he was simply expressing his honest view.

The incident highlights the heightened emotions surrounding the tournament and the interactions between the two sides, but it does not affect the match outcome, which sees Brazil advancing to the next round.