The Samba Stars And The Samurai Blue Clash In Texas
Houston Stadium, USA | 2026 World Cup Round of 32 | Monday, June 29 | 6pm BST
Ahead of the most intriguing 2026 World Cup Round of 32 clash, BetVictor News delivers the in-depth Brazil vs Japan preview – including the score prediction, overall H2H record, team news, latest odds, the best betting angles and more.
- Brazil vs Japan prediction: The Selecao blunt Samurai Blue in end-to-end clash
- Bet on the 2026 World Cup with BetVictor
Brazil Vs Japan Preview
Despite their sluggish draw against Morocco on MD1 in Group C, Brazil certainly upped the ante against Haiti and Scotland to clinch top spot ahead of the North Africans via goal difference. Despite that, our Brazil World Cup preview is tipping the five-time winners to stumble at the quarter-final stage
However, a victory over World Cup dark horses Japan would certainly generate the belief Carlo Ancelotti’s side could go all the way. The South Americans are getting into their stride but face a very tricky obstacle in the shape of the Samurai Blue.
Although the Brazil vs Japan odds favour the Samba Stars, the Asian heavyweights will head into the clash with a firm belief they can cause an upset. After all, Hajime Moriyasu’s side beat a strong Brazilian outfit 3-2 in a friendly clash on October 14.
Brazil Vs Japan H2H Record
Interestingly, that victory is the only time Japan have gotten the better of Brazil across their previous 14 meetings. The Selecao have won 11 times with two draws being played out between the two nations.
Brazil vs Japan H2H record:
- Oct 14, 2025: Japan 3-2 Brazil (Friendly)
- Jun 06, 2022: Japan 0-1 Brazil (Friendly)
- Nov 10, 2017: Japan 1-3 Brazil (Friendly)
- Oct 14, 2014: Japan 0-4 Brazil (Friendly)
- Jun 15, 2013: Brazil 3-0 Japan (Confederations Cup)
- Oct 16, 2012: Brazil 4-0 Japan (Friendly)
- Jun 22, 2006: Japan 1-4 Brazil (World Cup)
- Jun 22, 2005: Japan 2-2 Brazil (Confederations Cup)
- Jun 04, 2001: Japan 0-0 Brazil (Confederations Cup)
- Mar 31, 1999: Japan 0-2 Brazil (Friendly)
- Aug 13, 1997: Japan 0-3 Brazil (Friendly)
- Aug 09, 1995: Japan 1-5 Brazil(Friendly)
- Jun 06, 1995: Japan 0-3 Brazil (Umbro Cup)
- Jul 23, 1989: Brazil 1-0 Japan (Friendly)
Brazil Vs Japan Team News
After picking up a hamstring injury against Haiti and missing the Scotland win, Raphinha is likely to miss out for Brazil. That means Bournemouth wonderkid Rayan could start after shining against the Tartan Army last time out. Premier League stars Alisson, Gabriel, Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro and Matheus Cunha will also feature from the off.
As for Japan, they are expected to be without Takefusa Kubo. The attacker is still not back in full training. In the middle of the park, Kaishu Sano is likely to get the nod over Yukinari Sugawara. Parma star Zion Suzuki will be tasked with keeping net for the Samurai Blue.
Brazil’s last six in all comps:
WWDWWW
Japan’s last six in all comps:
DWDWWW
Brazil Vs Japan Predicted Lineups
Brazil predicted lineup:
Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Santos; Guimaraes, Casemiro; Rayan, Paqueta, Vinicius Jr; Cunha
Japan predicted lineup:
Suzuki; Ito, Tomiyasu, Itakura; Doan, Sano, Tanaka, Nakamura; Kamada, Maeda; Ueda
Brazil Vs Japan TV Channel, Live Streaming And Radio
Brazil vs Japan is available to watch live in the UK on ITV1 (kick-off 6pm). Streaming is also available on ITVX. Followers can also tune in via BBC Radio 5 Live.
*A valid TV license is required to watch live in the UK
Brazil Vs Japan Betting Angles
Key Match Stats
- The only time Brazil and Japan met at the World Cup came in the 2006 edition. R9 scored twice in a 4-1 Selecao win
- Brazil World Cup stats – The Selecao have won all four World Cup clashes against AFC confederation
- Japan World Cup stats – The Samurai Blue are undefeated in their last ten internationals across all comps
Top Betting Angles for Brazil Vs Japan
Over 3.5 goals: Landed comfortably in the friendly clash in October. Has also came in across two of Japan’s three group games. Online at 5/2.
BTTS (Yes): Both sides have demonstrated strong, attacking intent so far in North America. Also came in during the friendly match. Available at 37/40.
Anytime goalscorers: Vini Jr (6/4) Matheus Cunha (17/10), Koki Ogawa (31/10) and Ayase Ueda (27/10) are worth considering.
Brazil Vs Japan Prediction
Brazil are certainly growing in confidence but Japan have provent hey can definetely mix it with the big boys. As the Selecao found out themselves back in October. However, the South American’s plethora of attacking talent – led by the brilliant Vini Jr – should be enough to see them progress to the last 16.
Prediction: Brazil 3-2 Japan (25/1)
If you intend to bet on Brazil vs Japan then please take the time to read through BetVictor’s safe and responsible gambling page which will provide good advice on how to stay in control when betting on football.
Any betting decisions should be made responsibly and there are no guarantees when it comes to match outcomes. All odds correct as of 12:30pm on June 29, 2026 and are subject to change.
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