5-time champions Brazil have a tough check on their palms because the World Cup knockouts proceed in Houston.
Japan have been spectacular in ending second in Group F behind the Netherlands, whereas Brazil roll into the knockout rounds having topped Group C.
Carlo Ancelotti’s aspect has appeared fluid in assault, closely counting on the explosive type of Vinicius Junior. The Actual Madrid celebrity has already notched four goals in the tournament, making him the definitive spearhead of a entrance line that additionally options the damaging Raphinha and Matheus Cunha.
“I had no doubts about how he could be coming into this World Cup,” stated Ancelotti of the 25-year-old.
“For him it’s an honour to play for the nationwide staff. He’s enjoying properly and he even scored a header in opposition to Scotland, which could be very uncommon for him.
“I knew all about what Vini may do. He is without doubt one of the greatest gamers on the earth.”
Japan’s path to the Spherical of 32 has been equally spectacular.
In a dramatic worldwide pleasant late final yr, Japan shocked the South American giants with a 3-2 comeback victory, turning round a 2-0 half-time deficit because of second-half strikes from Takumi Minamino, Keito Nakamura, and Ayase Ueda.
Historical past favours Brazil however don’t rely out Japan for this one – although they’re but to win a knockout match on the World Cup.
Staff information for Brazil v Japan
As ever, all eyes can be on Neymar. The veteran got here on in opposition to Scotland after recovering from damage for his first Brazil look in almost 1000 days.
He can be on the bench once more, we anticipate, regardless of Barcelona’s Raphinha being a doubt with a hamstring damage.
Japan have doubts over defender Ko Itakura and Takefusa Kubo.
Predicted line-ups for Brazil v Japan
Brazil: Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Santos; Guimaraes, Casemiro; Rayan, Paqueta, Vinicius Jr; Cunha
Japan: Suzuki; Ito, Tomiyasu, Itakura; Doan, Sano, Tanaka, Nakamura; Kamada, Maeda; Ueda
