Inspired by veteran Neymar
Despite possessing a star-studded squad, Carlo Ancelotti's team is predicted to face a stormy 90 minutes against the iron discipline of the Asian representatives.
Under the guidance of the Italian strategist, Brazil has shed some of its improvisational style to embrace a pragmatic European approach. Their deep-lying defense, waiting for explosive moments in transitional situations with their "spearhead" Vinicius Junior (who has scored 4 goals), has helped the Selecao top Group C with 7 points. The return of veteran Neymar from the bench in the previous match also provides additional attacking options for the South American team.
Brazil will face a tough challenge in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. Photo: FIFA
However, the "Blue Samurai" are not Scotland or Haiti to be easily tricked. Japan, dubbed the "Brazil of Asia," advanced to the knockout stage undefeated in Group F thanks to their incredibly versatile playing style: resiliently drawing with the Netherlands and Sweden, and convincingly defeating Tunisia. Japan's mobile and enthusiastic midfield is considered a nemesis for Brazil's somewhat sluggish midfield at the moment.
Speaking before the match, coach Hajime Moriyasu confidently asserted that Japanese football no longer fears Brazil. His assessment is entirely based on reality, as in the most recent encounter between the two teams in October 2025, Japan came from behind to defeat Brazil 3-2. And if they cannot finish off the "Samurai Blue" within 90 minutes, the prospect of being eliminated from the 2026 World Cup in the Round of 16 is entirely possible for the "Samba dancers".
A challenge for the "tank"
On the same day, the match between Germany and Paraguay at 3:30 PM was also considered evenly matched and unpredictable. Germany, nicknamed "The Tanks," advanced to the Round of 16 as winners of Group E (6 points) but had a disappointing performance in their loss to Ecuador. Meanwhile, Paraguay, with 4 points after 3 matches in Group D, was one of the best third-placed teams in the group stage to qualify for the Round of 32.
Julian Nagelsmann's team is expected to face a tough challenge in the knockout round because Paraguay is a team with extensive international experience and a tenacious playing style. The South American team operates on a tactical approach centered around coach Gustavo Alfaro's pragmatic philosophy, prioritizing keeping a clean sheet before seizing opportune moments for counter-attacks to score.
History is on Germany's side, as they previously defeated Paraguay 1-0 in the Round of 16 of the 2002 World Cup. However, if Germany's strikers lack effectiveness, the scenario of Nagelsmann's team falling into "La Albirroja's" counter-attacking trap is entirely possible.
Will Morocco spring a surprise?
"The Orange Tornado" aims to reaffirm its position as a championship contender, and Morocco is also ready to continue the fairytale story they started four years ago when the two sides clash at 8:00 AM on June 30th in Monterrey (Mexico).
In the FIFA rankings, Morocco is one place above the Netherlands, reflecting the strong progress of the North African team since finishing fourth in the 2022 World Cup. Coach Walid Regragui's team maintains a disciplined, physically strong defensive style of play and is particularly dangerous in transitional situations, with many stars playing in top European leagues.
Conversely, the Netherlands, under coach Ronald Koeman, possesses a well-balanced squad with extensive experience in big matches. The "Orange Tornado" also demonstrated stability by progressing through the group stage undefeated.
Both teams promise a very close contest, where a single moment of brilliance or individual mistake could decide who gets a place in the quarter-finals. With the experience of a team with a rich tradition, the Netherlands are considered slightly superior, but Morocco is perfectly capable of creating another surprise at the 2026 World Cup.
The opening match of the Round of 16 on the morning of June 29th between South Africa and Canada in Los Angeles (USA) was considered fairly evenly matched, with both teams making their first appearance in the knockout stage. South Africa impressed with their disciplined play, solid defense, and tenacious fighting spirit. Meanwhile, Canada was highly rated thanks to their co-host advantage and a squad of players with speed and stamina. The CONCACAF representative possessed more effective attacking options and the ability to make a difference at crucial moments. Canada was likely to win and reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time.
Source: https://nld.com.vn/kich-tinh-vong-knock-out-196260627182002919.htm
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