Shillong: Five-time champions Brazil head to NRG Stadium on Monday to face Japan. This Round of 32 clash determines who advances to the next stage of the FIFA World Cup. The victor takes on either Ivory Coast or Norway.
Brazil enters the match with momentum. Carlo Ancelotti’s squad topped Group C after a shaky opening draw against Morocco. They bounced back with dominant 3-0 wins against Haiti and Scotland. Vinicius Junior and Matheus Cunha lead the attack, while the defense finally looks solid. The team kept clean sheets in their last two matches.
Japan remains a threat. They stunned the South Americans 3-2 during an October friendly. That loss marked the first time Japan ever beat Brazil. The team fought through Group F to secure their spot. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki earned the advancement after his late performance against Sweden. Coach Ancelotti understands the risk. "Brazil will not underestimate Japan," the team noted ahead of the match.
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