FIFA World Cup 2026: Neymar on bench as Brazil, Japan confirm starting XIs for knockout clash
Texas, June 29
Brazil and Japan have announced their respective starting XIs for their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash on Monday in Houston, with star forward Neymar Jr once again named on the bench for the five-time champions.
Neymar was also named on the bench for Brazil's final group-stage match against Scotland, but the 34-year-old made his first appearance since 2023 after coming on as a substitute in the closing stages of Brazil's 3-0 win in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C fixture on Wednesday, June 24 (local time). He returned to action after recovering from a calf injury.
The appearance marked Neymar's first outing at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 and his first competitive appearance for Brazil since October 2023, when he suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. The injury kept him out of action for an extended period and limited his involvement in Brazil's qualification campaign.
The Brazilian winger replaced Matheus Cunha in the 76th minute against Scotland, making his fourth FIFA World Cup appearance. He has now featured in the 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026 editions of the tournament.
Brazil's starting line-up for their clash against Japan includes Alisson as the goalkeeper, with Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos (captain), Danilo and Douglas Santos in defence. Their midfield features Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes and Lucas Paqueta, while the attack includes Vinicius Junior, Matheus Cunha and Rayan.
Japan have named Zion Suzuki as goalkeeper, with Shogo Taniguchi, Hiroki Ito and Takehiro Tomiyasu forming the backline. Captain Ritsu Doan, Daizen Maeda, Keito Nakamura, Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada and Kaishu Sano comprise the midfield, while Ayase Ueda starts as the lone striker.
Brazil vs Japan Round of 32 clash line-ups
Brazil: Alisson (GK), Gabriel Magalhães, Marquinhos, Danilo, Douglas Santos, Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Lucas Paqueta, Vinicius Junior, Matheus Cunha, Rayan
Japan: Zion Suzuki (GK), Shogo Taniguchi, Hiroki Ito, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Ritsu Doan, Daizen Maeda, Keito Nakamura, Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada, Kaishu Sano, Ayase Ueda.
— ANI
Reader Comments
India may not be in the World Cup, but I'm still glued to the screen! Watching Brazil vs Japan is always a treat. Japan’s midfield looks solid — Doan and Maeda can trouble any defense. Would love to see an upset here 🤞
I feel for Neymar. He's been through so much with injuries, and now he's not even starting in a knockout match. But it's smart management from Brazil — they're thinking long-term. Let's see if he gets a decent cameo in the second half! 🇧🇷
Japan's lineup is interesting — Suzuki in goal is still young, but he's got a big test ahead. Alisson vs Suzuki is a mismatch on paper, but you never know in a knockout game. Also, Rayan starting for Brazil? He's been impressive, but I'd prefer Endrick over him honestly.
My husband and I are hosting a watch party tonight! 🎉 Brazil has that aura, but I love Japan's discipline. They don't have superstars, but as a unit, they're dangerous. Expecting a 2-1 win for Brazil with Neymar coming on as a super sub and scoring a penalty.
One thing I don't like — why is Neymar still being called the "star" when he barely plays? He's a legend, but at this point, Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and even Raphinha carry the team. Let the new gen take over fully. Just my honest opinion!
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