US - Ahead of the 2026 World Cup round of 32, coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted opponent Japan is among the world's strongest, and called on Brazilian players to show strong spirit. - VnExpress

Ancelotti compares Japan match to final for Brazil

US. Before World Cup 2026 round of 16, coach Carlo Ancelotti called Japan top world team, urged Brazil players show strong spirit.

Ancelotti said Japan played well beating Brazil 3-2 in October 2025 friendly. Called it valuable lesson helping Brazil respect all opponents. Cited Japan 1-0 win over England in March 2026 friendly to show Asian team is world-class.

"Japan match is final for Brazil. Must prepare like final," Ancelotti said before Houston match on June 29. Added players need strong spirit, brave hearts, clear ideas.

Ancelotti: Japan match is final for Brazil

Coach Ancelotti directs during Brazil-Morocco draw in World Cup 2026 Group C, East Rutherford, US, June 13. Photo: AP

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Brazil holds record five World Cup titles, but missed final in last five tournaments. Japan best result is round of 16 in 2002, 2010, 2018, 2022. Japan far behind in head-to-head history, but recently plays well, shocks big teams. Beat Brazil 3-2 in October 2025, England 1-0 in London in March 2026 friendlies. Shocked Germany, Spain 2-1 in World Cup 2022 group stage.

At World Cup 2026, Japan second in Group F (five points), Brazil leads Group C (seven points).

Ancelotti said victory depends on handling pressure, focusing on actions. Wants players focus on attack, defense, teamwork. "Match demands this. We face strong, organized, high-quality opponent. Need clear ideas on pitch," Ancelotti said. Added players must prepare for anything in knockout match.

Highlights of Brazil 3-0 Scotland, World Cup 2026 Group C, June 24.

Japan forward Kento Shiogai said Brazil no longer powerhouse. Ancelotti ignored comment. Former Real Madrid coach refused mind games, focused only on match, opponent quality.

Five-time Champions League winner said avoiding France, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Portugal bracket no advantage. Every match tough, no team dominant. "Some played better, but none superior. World Cup very balanced," Ancelotti added.

Team news: Neymar (played 20 minutes in group stage) might play 15 minutes. 34-year-old striker improved fitness, but not training full-time yet.

Highlights of Japan 2-2 Netherlands, World Cup 2026 Group F, June 14.