Japan Vows to Put Up a Fight Against Brazil in Highly Anticipated Round of 32 Clash
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu has warned that his team will not be pushovers when they face Brazil in their World Cup last-32 clash in Houston on Monday. Moriyasu's comments came after Japan finished runners-up in Group F, following a 1-1 draw with Sweden in Dallas.
The Japanese team had taken the lead through Daizen Maeda, but conceded minutes later. Moriyasu opted to bring on defensive players to preserve the point and secure second place in the group behind the Netherlands.
Moriyasu drew confidence from Japan's 3-2 comeback win over Brazil in Tokyo last October, their first-ever victory against the five-time champions. "Last time we proved to Brazil that we aren't a pushover," he said, adding that his team will go into the match looking to win.
The coach also highlighted the significance of Japan's progress to the knockout rounds, saying it represents the growth of football in the country and is a positive development for Asian football. Japan's World Cup campaign is part of the 2026 tournament, which is being held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11th to July 19th.
The Japanese team had taken the lead through Daizen Maeda, but conceded minutes later. Moriyasu opted to bring on defensive players to preserve the point and secure second place in the group behind the Netherlands.
Moriyasu drew confidence from Japan's 3-2 comeback win over Brazil in Tokyo last October, their first-ever victory against the five-time champions. "Last time we proved to Brazil that we aren't a pushover," he said, adding that his team will go into the match looking to win.
The coach also highlighted the significance of Japan's progress to the knockout rounds, saying it represents the growth of football in the country and is a positive development for Asian football. Japan's World Cup campaign is part of the 2026 tournament, which is being held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11th to July 19th.
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