The FIFA World Cup knockout stage will witness a thrilling encounter as Brazil clashes with Japan for a spot in the Round of 16 at NRG Stadium in Houston. Brazil, topping Group C, is a strong contender in the tournament, while Japan, known for upsetting traditional football powerhouses, enters the match unbeaten as well.
Brazil’s impressive performance in the group stage, including a 1-1 draw with Morocco and victories over Haiti and Scotland, showcases their attacking prowess with 15 goals in their last five matches. On the other hand, Japan’s tactical discipline and swift counter-attacks have been key to their success, culminating in a 4-0 win over Tunisia.
The strategic battle between the two teams will be crucial, with Brazil expected to dominate possession and push forward aggressively, while Japan aims to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities. Despite Brazil’s historical advantage, Japan’s recent victory over them in 2025 adds an element of unpredictability to the matchup. Both teams enter the knockout stage unbeaten, setting the stage for an intense showdown in Houston.
How to watch Brazil vs Japan live in India:
Live streaming and telecast of the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will be available on the Zee5 platform and app in India, requiring a subscription. Additionally, Unite8 Sports channels will broadcast the matches in India.
Key details:
Date and kick-off time: Monday, June 29, 10:30 PM IST
Venue: Houston Stadium, Houston
Referee: Maurizio Mariani
Squads:
Brazil –
Goalkeepers: Alisson, Ederson, Weverton
Defenders: Ederson, Douglas Santos, Alex Sandro, Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos, Danilo, Bremer, Ibanez, Leo Pereira
Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Danilo Santos, Fabinho, Lucas Paqueta, Raphinha, Neymar
Forwards: Vinicius Junior, Luiz Henrique, Matheus Cunha, Gabriel Martinelli, Igor Thiago, Endrick, Rayan
Japan –
Goalkeepers: Tomoki Hayakawa, Keisuke Osako, Zion Suzuki
Defenders: Ko Itakura, Hiroki Ito, Yuto Nagatomo, Ayumu Seko, Yukinari Sugawara, Junnosuke Suzuki, Shogo Taniguchi, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Tsuyoshi Watanabe
Midfielders: Ritsu Doan, Wataru Endo, Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada, Takefusa Kubo, Keito Nakamura, Kaishu Sano, Ao Tanaka
Forwards: Keisuke Goto, Daizen Maeda, Koki Ogawa, Kento Shiogai, Yuito Suzuki, Ayase Ueda
