FIFA World Cup 2026: Manager Hajime Moriyasu backs Japan to upset Brazil in R32
Houston, June 29
Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu expressed confidence that his side can create history against Brazil as they prepare for their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash, while confirming that midfielder Takefusa Kubo will miss the match due to injury.
Japan will take on Brazil in the Round of 32, with a place in the last 16 at stake on June 29 (local time).
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Moriyasu said Japan respect the five-time world champions but believes they have an opportunity to spring an upset.
"Brazil is always considered a strong contender to win the tournament, but we want to win and change history," Moriyasu said, as quoted by Japan's news outlet NHK ONE.
Referring to Japan's first-ever victory over Brazil in an international friendly last October, Moriyasu said his side would approach the knockout encounter with belief.
"Brazil is always considered a strong contender to win the tournament, but we also believe we are a dark horse contender. We respect them, but we have a chance to win. We will do our best to make history," he said.
The Japan manager also stressed the importance of competing against one of world's football traditional powerhouses on the biggest stage.
"Being able to compete against a serious Brazilian team in the World Cup will be a great asset for our future. I want the players to fight with all their might," Moriyasu added.
Moriyasu also confirmed that Takefusa Kubo has been ruled out of the Round of 32 fixture after sustaining a left knee injury during Japan's opening group-stage match.
"He will not play in tomorrow's match. I hope he recovers quickly," Hajime Moriyasu said.
Meanwhile, Brazil's first-place finish in Group C extended their remarkable record of topping their World Cup group for a 12th consecutive tournament. The five-time champions have finished first in their group at every World Cup since 1982, maintaining an extraordinary 44-year streak of group-stage dominance.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The Brazilian dominance in group stages is unreal - 12 consecutive tournaments as group toppers since 1982! That's a legacy that puts even the best teams to shame. Japan would need a miracle, but as they say, football celebrates unpredictability. Hope to see an Asian team create history again.
I'm a neutral USA-based fan and this matchup is intriguing. Japan's attacking style with players like Mitoma and Doan could trouble Brazil's defense, but without Kubo's creativity, they might lack that final ball. Respect to Moriyasu for his bold confidence though - that's the spirit of the World Cup!
Being a student of the game in Bangalore, I admire Japan's systematic approach to football development. They've consistently produced technically sound players who compete at top European clubs. Beating Brazil in a knockout game would be the ultimate statement for Asian football. Let's hope the Blue Samurai can pull it off! 💪
Honestly, Japan needs to be realistic here. Brazil's depth is unmatched and their group-stage dominance shows they peak at major tournaments. Kubo's absence makes an already tough task even harder. I'd love to see an upset, but history and form both point to Brazil sailing through. Still, knockout football can be crazy - ask Germany or Argentina!
As someone who grew up watching Zico and Ronaldinho, Brazil is eternal! But Japan's discipline and counter-attacking ability make them dangerous. The 2022 World Cup showed no team is invincible. Moriyasu's "dark horse" comment isn
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.