Brazil take on dark horses Japan in the World Cup round of 32 at NRG Stadium in Houston today. Brazil topped their group to reach the knockout stage, while Japan finished as runners-up in Group F. The winners of today’s game will face either Ivory Coast or Norway in New York for a place in the quarter-finals.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti revealed what he told the players at halftime, down 1-0 to Japan, before a comeback win.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 continued on Monday with a matinee matchup between Brazil and Japan, and Brazil stole a 2-1 comeback victory with a game-winning goal by Gabriel Martinelli in stoppage time.

BRASILIA, June 30 (Reuters) - Brazil's gross debt rose more than expected in May, central bank data showed on Tuesday, as the country's rising interest bill pushed borrowing higher. Debt reached 81.1% of gross domestic product,

The five-time World Cup winners were in danger of slumping to a historic low in the tournament they have dominated more than any other nation after going behind to Japan in Houston. Carlo Ancelotti’s side were insipid in the first half but an inspired comeback — capped by goals from Casemiro and a last-gasp winner from Gabriel Martinelli — sealed a dramatic 2-1 victory and a place in the last 16,

Brazil midfielder Casemiro credited his side's composure and persistence after defeating Japan in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. He said Brazil's patience in breaking down Japan's organized defense was the key to their victory.

Follow live updates and coverage on the 2026 World Cup as three knockout matches are set for today, starting with Brazil vs. Japan.

Brazil once won by aura. Under Carlo Ancelotti, the Selecao are learning a harder World Cup truth; beauty needs structure to survive.