Following the 1-1 draw with Sweden on Thursday (June 25), Japan's head coach Hajime Moriyasu mentioned the prospect of facing Brazil in the knockout round of the 2026 World Cup during the post-match press conference. With confidence but also respect for his opponent, the Japanese strategist highly rated the Brazilian team.
"It will be a great experience. They are a perfect team, but I believe we still have a chance to beat them and advance to the next round. We will pursue that opportunity and prepare well. We once beat Brazil in a friendly match. Perhaps that's why they will be even more determined this time. I'm really looking forward to this match," said coach Moriyasu.
Coach Hajime Moriyasu believes Japan has a chance to defeat Brazil and advance to the next round. (Photo: Reuters)
At the 2026 World Cup, Japan drew 2-2 with the Netherlands in their opening match, then beat Tunisia 4-0. The Japanese coach believes that the status of the Japanese national team has changed significantly in recent years. According to him, the "Blue Samurai" are no longer an easy opponent for Brazil to dominate as before.
"Previously, Japan was an easy opponent for Brazil. But in the most recent friendly match, we proved that we are no longer an easy team to beat. That's a step forward, a sign of maturity. Brazil is one of the top teams in the world and we have great respect for them, but nobody knows what will happen in the match. We also have a chance to win," he added.
The Japanese coach also praised coach Carlo Ancelotti and the current form of the Brazilian national team. "I greatly admire Ancelotti as a coach. He has achieved so much success in the Champions League and won five of Europe's top leagues. He is extraordinary. I will never be able to reach that level. Now, he is leading Brazil, one of the strongest teams in the world, and that is not an easy task. But he is doing very well, which shows great ability and character."
In another development during the press conference, Moriyasu unexpectedly revealed his desire to face Argentina. "I'll close my eyes and hope there are no reporters from other countries here. But if I had to choose, I'd say Argentina. They are the reigning world champions and are still playing very well. I'm sorry, Brazil," said Coach Moriyasu.
On June 26th, the Japanese national team played against Sweden in the final match of Group F at the 2026 World Cup, needing only a draw to secure qualification for both teams. Both teams achieved their goal with a 1-1 draw, with the two goals scored just over five minutes apart. According to the 2026 World Cup schedule, Japan will face the Group C winner, Brazil, in the Round of 16.
Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/hlv-nhat-ban-tu-tin-thang-duoc-brazil-a490519.html
