According to Ancelotti, Japan performed well in a 3-2 friendly victory over Brazil in 10/2025. He described it as a valuable experience, making Brazil realize the importance of playing well and respecting every opponent. He also cited Japan's 1-0 friendly win against England in London in 3/2026 to emphasize that the Asian representative is one of the world's leading national teams.

"Playing Japan is like a final for Brazil. We must prepare for this match as if it were a final," Ancelotti stated before the game at Houston, US on 29/6. He stressed that Brazilian players need a strong spirit, a brave heart, and clear ideas.

Coach Ancelotti gives instructions during Brazil's draw with Morocco in World Cup 2026 Group C, in East Rutherford, US on 13/6. *AP*.

Brazil holds the record with five World Cup titles but has not reached a final in the last five tournaments. In contrast, Japan's best performance has been reaching the round of 16 in 2002, 2010, 2018, and 2022. While historically lagging in head-to-head records, Japan has consistently performed well in recent years, often making waves against major teams. Beyond their 3-2 friendly victory over Brazil in 10/2025 and the 1-0 win against England in London in 3/2026, they also shocked Germany and Spain with identical 2-1 victories in the World Cup 2022 group stage.

In World Cup 2026, Japan finished second in Group F with five points, while Brazil topped Group C with seven points.

Ancelotti believes that victory in football hinges on how players handle pressure and focus on what they can control. Therefore, he wants his players to concentrate on offensive and defensive aspects, as well as teamwork. "This is a match that demands that. We will face a strong, well-organized, and high-quality opponent. Above all, we need a clear idea of what we want to do on the field," Ancelotti said, adding that players must prepare for anything that might happen in a knockout match.

Key moments from Brazil's 3-0 victory over Scotland in World Cup 2026 Group C on 24/6.

Regarding Japanese striker Kento Shiogai's comment that Brazil is no longer a football powerhouse, Ancelotti stated he was not concerned. The former Real Madrid coach refused to discuss what opponents say or engage in psychological games, choosing instead to focus solely on the match and the opponent's qualities.

The coach, who holds the record for winning five Champions League titles, also believes that avoiding a bracket with France, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, and Portugal is not an advantage for Brazil. According to him, every match is difficult, and no team has truly stood out. "Some teams may have played better than others, but I don't see any team as superior. I believe this will be a very balanced World Cup," Ancelotti added.

Regarding personnel, Ancelotti confirmed that Neymar, who only played 20 minutes in the group stage, might feature for 15 minutes in the upcoming match. The 34-year-old striker has significantly improved his physical condition over the past week but cannot yet train full-time with his teammates.

Key moments from Japan's 2-2 draw with Netherlands in World Cup 2026 Group F on 14/6.

Thanh Quy (according to GE)