🏟️ When and Where

Brazil and Japan will face off on Monday, June 29, in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match will be played at Houston Stadium in Houston, United States.

Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT, with Italian referee Maurizio Mariani assigned to officiate the match.

📺 How and Where to Watch Brazil vs Japan

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🇧🇷 Brazil's Preview

Brazil enters the knockout stage as the winner of Group C after collecting seven points during the group stage. Carlo Ancelotti's side opened the tournament with a draw against Morocco before recording back-to-back 3-0 victories over Haiti and Scotland to comfortably finish atop the group.

The Seleção has grown stronger with every match, combining defensive solidity with an attack that appears to be finding its rhythm at exactly the right time. That balance makes Brazil one of the leading contenders to lift the World Cup trophy.

Now, however, the margin for error disappears. Every match is win or go home, and Brazil knows its quest for a sixth World Cup title truly begins here.

🇯🇵 Japan's Preview

Japan advanced to the Round of 32 after finishing second in Group F with five points. Hajime Moriyasu's squad opened its campaign with a thrilling 2-2 draw against the Netherlands before cruising to a 4-0 victory over Tunisia and closing the group stage with a 1-1 draw against Sweden.

The Samurai Blue impressed throughout the first round with an aggressive, attack-minded approach, consistently looking to dictate play regardless of the opponent.

That confidence and proactive style have turned Japan into one of the most dangerous dark horses entering the knockout rounds.

⭐ Players to Watch

🇧🇷 Vinícius Júnior

Vinícius Júnior enters this match in outstanding form after scoring in three consecutive World Cup matches. The Real Madrid winger has been Brazil's most dangerous attacking player throughout the tournament, constantly creating problems with his pace and dribbling ability.

With Raphinha unavailable, even more attacking responsibility falls on Vinícius' shoulders. This is another opportunity for him to remind the football world why he was once considered among the leading candidates for the Ballon d'Or.

🇯🇵 Takefusa Kubo

Takefusa Kubo has been the driving force behind Japan's attack during the group stage. His creativity, technical ability, and willingness to take on defenders have made him one of the tournament's standout performers.

The Real Sociedad star has played a major role in shaping Japan into a team that attacks without fear and refuses to sit back against stronger opponents. That fearless mentality could once again create problems for one of the favorites to win the tournament.

🎯 Final Analysis

Brazil's history, talent, and championship pedigree make the five-time world champions the clear favorites heading into this Round of 32 matchup. Carlo Ancelotti's squad appears to be improving with every game and remains firmly focused on capturing a record-extending sixth World Cup title.

However, everything Japan showed during the group stage suggests the Samurai Blue will not be intimidated. Hajime Moriyasu's team has proven it can compete toe-to-toe with top opposition, and its attacking mentality makes Japan a dangerous opponent capable of pulling off one of the biggest upsets of the knockout stage.

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