FIFA World Cup 26™: What to look out for in Brazil v Japan 🇧🇷🇯🇵 | OneFootball

Houston Stadium hosts a mouthwatering FIFA World Cup 26™ Round of 32 showdown on Monday as Brazil take on Japan.

Here is everything you need to look out for in the knockout encounter.

Who is playing today? 👀

Brazil and Japan meet for a place in the FIFA World Cup 26™ Round of 16 in one of the most intriguing ties of the Round of 32.

Brazil topped Group C with seven points after drawing 1-1 with Morocco before recording convincing victories over Haiti (3-0) and Scotland (3-0). Carlo Ancelotti's side finished above Morocco and head into the knockout stage unbeaten, having conceded just one goal in three matches. Vinícius Júnior has starred with four goals during the group stage, while Neymar made his long-awaited return from injury as a second-half substitute against Scotland.

Japan secured second place in Group F with five points. Hajime Moriyasu's side opened their campaign with a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands, thrashed Tunisia 4-0 before drawing 1-1 with Sweden to book their place in the knockout rounds. 

Players to watch 🔥

For Brazil, Vinícius Júnior has been the standout performer of the tournament so far. The Real Madrid forward scored four goals during the group stage, including a brace against Scotland which earned him an Attacking Score of 8.79 in the FIFA Power Rankings - powered by Aramco.

Matheus Cunha is another player in excellent form after scoring three goals in the group stage. The Manchester United man earned himself an Attacking Score of 6.69 in that game against the Scots.

For Japan, Ayase Ueda has enjoyed an outstanding tournament. The Feyenoord striker scored twice in the victory over Tunisia which earned him an Attacking Score of 8.40.

Daizen Maeda is another player capable of causing Brazil problems. The Celtic forward scored Japan's crucial goal against Sweden and his relentless pressing and movement have been central to Moriyasu's tactical approach throughout the tournament.

Must-watch video 🎥

Neymar was looking good in training earlier this week.

Fun facts 📊

Our prediction 🔮

Brazil 2-1 Japan