Japan's squad recognizes the strength of the Seleção and Neymar, but believes in victory

The Japanese team arrives motivated and confident to face Brazil in the round of 32 of the World Cup. The match, scheduled for next Monday (29) in Houston, United States, promises to be a challenge where the Japanese believe they can surprise the favorite team.

After securing a place in the knockout stage with a 1-1 draw against Sweden, left-back Nagatomo, in his fifth World Cup, recognized the strength of the Brazilian team and Neymar, but emphasized his belief in qualifying.

About Neymar, Nagatomo stated that the star requires special attention, but that the focus is on neutralizing the entire Brazilian squad.

"Neymar is a world-class player. We need to pay a lot of attention to him, but also to the entire Brazilian team. I believe that in this World Cup they will show their best football", declared the defender, happy to be 100% prepared for the clash.

"Brazil is a very strong team, as it always has been. But we also have a good team and we need to go onto the field believing that we can win", added the veteran.

Forward Maeda also highlighted the importance of preparation.

"I think we can beat Brazil, so, first of all, I want to recover well and prepare properly", said the player, showing optimism in the team's strategy.

He also reinforced his belief in the work developed: "If we can put into practice what we have built so far, yes, I think we can win."

Retrospect
Confidence is fueled by the good recent record, with only three defeats in the last 30 matches.

Japanese performance includes leadership in the Asian Qualifiers and a remarkable victory over Brazil itself by 3-2, in October 2025. This retrospect fuels the dream of a historic campaign, with the expectation that the current generation can win the unprecedented World Cup title.

The match between Brazil and Japan in the round of 32 is scheduled for next Monday, June 29, at 2 pm (Brasília time). The venue for the duel will be NRG Stadium, located in Houston, United States.

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Source: CNN