Brazil will meet Japan in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at NRG Stadium in Houston.

Carlo Ancelotti's side enter the knockout stage among the tournament favourites, while Japan hope to finally reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history.

Brazil Have Hit Top Form

Brazil recovered from a 1-1 draw against Morocco by recording back-to-back 3-0 victories over Haiti and Scotland.

Vinicius Junior Is Leading The Attack

Vinicius scored in all three group-stage matches, becoming the first Brazilian player to achieve that feat at a World Cup since Ronaldo and Rivaldo in 2002.

The Real Madrid forward has registered four goals and one assist while consistently creating dangerous opportunities.

Japan Continue Their Impressive Progress

Hajime Moriyasu's side reached the knockout stage for a third consecutive World Cup after navigating a difficult group featuring the Netherlands, Sweden and Tunisia.

Injury Concerns Persist

Captain Ko Itakura suffered an injury against Sweden, while Takefusa Kubo remains doubtful after missing the remainder of the group stage.

Daizen Maeda, Ritsu Doan and Ayase Ueda are expected to carry Japan's attacking responsibilities if Kubo is unavailable.

Key Match Statistics

Brazil

• Have conceded in six of their last eight matches.
• Won their last two matches 3-0.
• Have defeated Japan in six of their previous seven meetings.

Japan

• Have scored in ten consecutive matches.
• Have reached the World Cup knockout stage for the third tournament in a row.
• Remain unbeaten in the current tournament.

Prediction

Japan have once again demonstrated their tactical discipline, work rate and ability to compete against strong opposition. However, Brazil appear more balanced than earlier in the tournament and possess greater quality across every area of the pitch.

With Vinicius Junior in outstanding form and Carlo Ancelotti's side showing increasing confidence, Brazil have every opportunity to secure their place in the quarter-finals.

Prediction: Brazil to Win.