Japan exited the World Cup after losing 1-2 to Brazil in the round of 16. The Asian representative employed an effective defensive counter-attacking strategy, opening the scoring with a classic counter-attack in the 29th minute. However, in the second half, the team tired, losing control against Brazil's fast attacks. Casemiro equalized in the 54th minute, before substitute forward Gabriel Martinelli sealed the score in the 6th minute of added time.

"Japan played their worst match of the tournament. They trembled before the might of the yellow and green jersey", former Brazil international Felipe Melo wrote on X. "Japan's coach showed cowardice, instructing players to retreat into defense. A draw then a loss was only a matter of time. Carlo Ancelotti demonstrated a different approach."

Japan midfielder Kaishu Sano (24) disappointed after losing to Brazil 1-2 in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 at Houston stadium in the US on 29/6. Photo: AP

According to Melo, who played for Brazil at the 2010 World Cup, Ancelotti's patience proved crucial, as he did not substitute underperforming players in the first half. Casemiro then scored the equalizer with a header, and Rayan's tackle initiated the play for Martinelli's winning goal. "Brazil is strong and improving. They played better than the previous match and will be even better in the next round", Melo stated.

In contrast, many coaches and former players lauded Japan's performance. Former coach Philippe Troussier suggested Japan could leave the tournament with their heads held high. He argued that the difference between Japan and Brazil was not talent or organizational strength, but squad depth.

"Japan lacked the resources to maintain attacking pressure as they did in the first half. Things could have been different if Kaoru Mitoma, Takumi Minamino, Takefusa Kubo had not been injured", the former coach of Japan and Vietnam stated. "But they still troubled Brazil until the final whistle. It was a proud defeat. They have improved but still need to take another step to compete with the strongest teams."

Former Japan international Takashi Inui believed the players were exhausted by the end of the match due to constant defending. He noted that even if the match had gone to extra time, Brazil's chances of winning remained higher due to their abundance of goal-scoring players.

Commenting on US broadcaster Fox Soccer, Ibrahimovic asserted that while the public might only remember Japan's loss, he remembers how they dared to confront Brazil directly and play on par. "The Blue Samurai warriors" displayed excellent coordination, organization, and pressing, but lacked decisiveness at crucial moments.

"I want this generation to win a title. They are disciplined, talented, and humble", the former Sweden forward said. "The match against Brazil also proved their competitive spirit against top teams. A squad with all these elements is the most formidable opponent."

Japan represents a model for Asian football development. In 1992, they unveiled the "J-League 100-Year Vision". By 2005, the Japan Football Association (JFA) completed its plan to win the World Cup by 2050. Japanese football draws inspiration from Brazil, then learns almost everything from top sports nations such as Germany, the US, and Spain.

From its initial foundation, the J-League developed into a sustainable and leading professional football system in Asia. Japan's youth training also serves as a model, consistently exporting players to Europe. However, Japan has never won a knockout stage match since its first participation in the tournament in 1998.

Japan's collective spirit, with its "attack and defend together" philosophy, is second to none. However, coach Moriyasu indicated that Japan still "lacks something."

Gabriel Martinelli (22) scored Brazil's second goal against Japan in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 at Houston stadium, US on 29/6. Photo: AP

Roy Keane, former Republic of Ireland and Man Utd captain, compared Japan to Arsenal, a club that repeatedly finished second before winning the Premier League in 2025-2026. Japan needs to improve its mentality, having led three times in World Cup knockout rounds but losing each time. Before Brazil, they led 2-0 then lost 2-3 to Belgium in 2018, and later drew Croatia 1-1 before losing on penalties in 2022. Additionally, four of Japan's 6 goals conceded against these three opponents stemmed from limitations in defending aerial balls.

"Japan is just one step away from victory. Top teams possess composure even under pressure", Keane commented on UK broadcaster ITV. "I hope Japan will be a little wiser in the next four years."

Compiled by Trung Thu