FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil’s possible starting XI against Japan

In a crucial Round of 32 clash of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Brazil will face Japan today. The match is set to kick off at 11:00 PM Bangladesh time in Houston. The Selecao, who advanced as winners of Group C, now face one of Asia’s strongest sides in a highly anticipated knockout battle.

With no room for error in the knockout stage, head coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to field his strongest possible starting XI.

In goal, Brazil’s first-choice keeper Alisson Becker is set to start. The Liverpool goalkeeper has been in excellent form, conceding just one goal during the group stage and producing key saves, including a decisive performance against Scotland.

In defense, there are unlikely to be major changes. The centre-back pairing should feature captain Marquinhos alongside Gabriel Magalhaes. At full-back, Danilo and Douglas Santos are expected to start.

In midfield, the responsibility of stopping Japan’s fast counterattacks will fall on Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes. They are likely to be joined by Lucas Paqueta, who adds creativity in attack.

With Raphinha sidelined due to injury, the young 19-year-old winger Rayan could once again earn a starting place after impressing in the previous match.

The main attacking threat will come from Vinicius Junior, who has scored four goals and provided an assist in the tournament so far. He is expected to be partnered in attack by Matheus Cunha, who has scored three goals.

All eyes will also be on Neymar Jr, who returned from a long injury layoff and played the final 20 minutes in the previous match. He is unlikely to start but is expected to feature for more minutes in the second half. Young forward Endrick may also be used as a substitute option.

Historically, Brazil have had the upper hand, although Japan won the most recent meeting between the two sides. As a result, the five-time world champions are not taking their opponents lightly in this knockout encounter.

Predicted Brazil XI:

Alisson Becker; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Douglas Santos; Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes, Lucas Paqueta; Rayan, Matheus Cunha, Vinicius Junior.

Predicted Japan XI:

Zion Suzuki; Tsuyoshi Watanabe, Hiroki Ito, Ko Itakura; Ritsu Doan, Ayumu Seko, Ao Tanaka, Keito Nakamura; Daizen Maeda, Ayase Ueda, Daichi Kamada.