Brazil face Japan in a friendly as Carlo Ancelotti bids for momentum after a disappointing World Cup 2026. The Selecao broke the hearts of the Samurai Blue and their followers in Houston this summer, dumping out Hajime Moriyasu’s side 2-1 at the last-32 stage.
The result, inspired by Gabriel Martinelli’s late goal, dashed Japan’s hopes after a promising tournament, though Ancelotti’s side fell at the next stage at the hands of Norway and an inspired Erling Haaland, leaving a nation searching for answers.
Now, Ancelotti must quickly build momentum to bring the Brazilian public back onside, having won against India and secured a win and a draw against Australia in the last international break. Arsenal’s Bruno Guimaraes and Gabriel Magalhaes should be involved, while Barcelona’s Raphinha could shake off a knock to join Vinicius Jr in attack.
Meanwhile, this international break is expected to see the end of an era with Moriyasu poised to step down following the game next week against Paraguay. Follow all the build-up and action to this friendly below:
