Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil faces Japan in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 at Houston Stadium on 29/6. The South American squad topped Group C with seven points, following a 1-1 draw against Morocco and 3-0 victories over Haiti and Scotland. Brazil has scored seven unanswered goals since Morocco took an early lead in their first match, marking their best World Cup offensive run since 2002.

Brazilian legend Ronaldo (center) attends the Brazil - Scotland group stage match at the 2026 World Cup in Miami Gardens, Florida, US on 24/6. Photo: AP

Meanwhile, Japan advanced to the knockout stage as Group F runners-up, drawing with the Netherlands and Sweden, and defeating Tunisia 4-0. Hajime Moriyasu's team is unbeaten in 10 consecutive matches, despite losing key players Wataru Endo and Kaoru Mitoma to injury.

Striker Ayase Ueda contributed to three goals for Japan, while Vinicius Junior, with four group stage goals, is Brazil's leading hope. Historically, Brazil holds a significant advantage, having won 11, drawn two, and lost only one of their 14 encounters against Japan. However, their sole defeat occurred in their most recent match in October 2025.

According to Opta's supercomputer, Brazil has a 58,3% chance of winning within 90 minutes, compared to Japan's 18,1%. Brazil also has a 70% probability of advancing to the quarter-finals, while Japan's chances stand at 30%.

By Xuan Binh