Brazil news

Brazil take on Japan in the opening round of the World Cup knockouts. Here’s how you can secure your tickets

The atmosphere for the World Cup round of 32 tie between Brazil and Japan heated up off the field after controversial statements from Kento Shiogai. Marquinhos, captain of the Brazilian national team, did not shy away from responding to comments from Shiogai questioning Neymar's current level and the Selecao's collective strength.

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Neymar is in "good shape" but suggested the forward will once again start on the bench for Monday’s World Cup round of 32 clash against Japan. The Santos star made his long-awaited return to the international stage as a late substitute in the Selecao's final group game against Scotland.

Comprehensive match preview of Brazil vs Japan at World Cup 2026. We talk tactics, team news, and more ahead of this Round of 32 clash in Houston.

After Real Madrid wonderkid Endrick sparked a wave of viral memes for sitting on Brazil's bench, Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo is now the main subject. England boss Thomas Tuchel's decision to keep the 21-year-old out of his starting lineup at the 2026 World Cup has triggered internet jokes, making the midfielder a meme sensation.

Hydration breaks are mandated at every single game of the 2026 World Cup, which has led to mixed reactions from coaches, players and fans alike.

Neymar has once again proven that his taste for luxury is as sharp as his footwork on the pitch. The Brazil talisman took advantage of a break in his World Cup schedule to add a staggering new piece to his already legendary accessory collection as he passed through New York.

The group stage of the 2026 World Cup came to a dramatic conclusion on Saturday, as Austria scored a 96th-minute equaliser against Algeria to qualify for the knockout stage while simultaneously eliminating Iran, who had been set to progress as one of the tournament's third-placed finishers. Elsewhere, Lionel Messi came off the bench to help Argentina maintain their 100 percent winning record with a 3-1 victory over Jordan and, in doing so, the No.10 extended his record-breaking goals tally at the finals to 19.

Finding a rich vein of form at the 2026 World Cup, there is a sense that Vinicius Jr has finally arrived on the international stage, delivering consistently for Brazil when it matters most to propel the Selecao through the group stage. As Carlo Ancelotti's side clicks into gear, it is now a question of what they are capable of with the Real Madrid superstar leading the way.

Carlo Ancelotti's son Davide has found himself at the centre of a storm following a viral clip from the World Cup. Footage appearing to show the Brazil national team assistant coach reacting negatively to Neymar's introduction during the 3-0 victory over Scotland has sparked a wave of social media backlash.

The Brazilian FA (CBF) has taken the extraordinary step of filing a formal complaint to FIFA following refereeing controversy in their World Cup clash with Scotland. Despite securing a 3-0 victory, the Selecao hierarchy are furious over a disallowed Vinicius Jr goal and are demanding that the match official never takes charge of their games again.

Real Madrid defender Eder Militao has hailed the tactical flexibility of Carlo Ancelotti as Brazil gear up for the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup. Despite being sidelined through injury, the centre-back has closely monitored the Selecao’s progression and believes the veteran coach has successfully ironed out early frailties.

Former Scotland international Craig Burley has heavily criticised Neymar following his emotional return to the international stage for Brazil. The outspoken television pundit claimed the iconic attacker looked visibly sluggish and off the pace during his substitute appearance, questioning whether his inclusion in the squad was merely a sentimental decision.