Brazil vs Japan – Prediction, where to watch, kick-off time and line-ups 29-06

Brazil and Japan face off in the round of 32 of the World Cup 2026. The match takes place this Monday, 29 June at 6 PM (BST), at the Houston Stadium.

This Brazil vs Japan fixture is a classic World Cup encounter, pitting the Seleção"s flair against the organised Samurai Blue. Japan will be looking to repeat their surprise 3-2 victory when the sides last met in October 2025, promising an intense battle for a place in the next round.

Keep reading to discover what our experts are predicting for this exciting encounter.

Brazil vs. Japan - Head-to-head record

The historical record between Brazil and Japan shows a clear pattern, with Brazil often dominant over their last four meetings. However, Japan’s recent 3-2 friendly victory adds intrigue to this World Cup clash.

Brazil won three of the last four encounters, securing 1-0, 3-1, and 3-0 wins. Japan’s win, a 3-2 result last year, boosts their confidence. This Brazil vs. Japan fixture promises an intense and finely balanced battle.

Japan’s solitary victory came on home soil, a potentially significant factor. While Brazil holds a superior head-to-head record, the Samurai Blue have demonstrated their ability to score. This knockout match offers a fascinating new chapter in their rivalry.

Brazil - Strong favourites for the clash

Here we will take a closer look at Brazil’s current situation ahead of their clash with Japan. We will analyse the team’s momentum, their recent performances in the World Cup, and how they might approach this knockout stage match. We will also provide the expected Brazil vs. Japan line-ups.

Recent form

Brazil enters the knockout stages with impressive momentum, having navigated the group phase unbeaten. They secured two convincing wins and a draw, showcasing a potent attack that has scored seven goals in just three World Cup matches. This strong start underlines their status as one of the tournament favourites.

The Seleção topped their group by defeating Scotland and Haiti, both by a comfortable 3-0 scoreline, after an initial 1-1 draw against Morocco. Their offensive firepower has been on full display, and they have been defensively solid, conceding only a single goal so far in the competition. This balance makes them a formidable opponent for any team.

A key reason for their success is the stellar form of Vinícius Júnior, who has already found the back of the net four times. He is well-supported by the creativity of Bruno Guimarães in midfield, who has provided three assists. Anyhow, the Brazilians cannot have Raphinha and Wesley Franca in their team now, as both players are injured.

Results of the last five matches

Probable line-up for Brazil

Alisson; Marquinhos, Gabriel, Douglas Santos, Danilo; Lucas Paquetá, Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães; Vinícius Júnior, Rayan, Cunha.

Manager: Carlo Ancelotti.

Japan - Unbeaten in the tournament

Now, let’s turn our attention to Japan. We will analyse their current form, recent results, and the standout performers who could make a difference.

Recent form

Japan also comes into this knockout match unbeaten, having successfully navigated a tough group. They secured draws against the Netherlands (2-2) and Sweden (1-1), alongside a commanding 4-0 victory over Tunisia. Scoring seven goals in three World Cup games demonstrates their attacking capabilities.

The Samurai Blue’s form extends beyond the tournament, with an impressive record of 14 wins in their last 21 matches. This run includes a significant 3-2 friendly victory over Brazil in October 2025, a result that will undoubtedly boost their morale. This proves they can compete with the world’s best teams and find the back of the net.

Key to their success have been attackers Daichi Kamada and Ayase Ueda, who have both scored two goals each in the competition. With Endo and Kubo reparted as absent, Japan’s squad isn’t full, but it is still strong. Their disciplined approach and potent attack make them a serious threat in this Brazil vs. Japan fixture.

Results of the last five matches

Probable line-up for Japan

Suzuki; Ito, Tanguichi, Tomiyasu; Maeda, Doan, Sano, Nakamura, Kamada, Tanaka; Ueda.

Manager: Hajime Moriyasu.

Brazil vs. Japan - Stats

• The last four meetings between these two nations have produced an average of 3.25 goals per game.
• Japan enters this clash in formidable form, currently enjoying a 10-match unbeaten run.
• Brazil has scored seven goals in the tournament so far, conceding only once in three matches.
• The Seleção’s star player, Vinícius Júnior, has been directly involved in five goals (4 goals, 1 assist).
• For the Samurai Blue, Ayase Ueda has been a key contributor with two goals and one assist.

Predictions for Brazil vs. Japan - Favourites to win

Brazil’s attack, with Vinícius Júnior in top form, has been potent, while Japan has also netted seven goals in the World Cup. This suggests an exciting knockout fixture where a draw appears unlikely, and the “Over 2.5 Goals" market is a strong possibility.

Japan, however, arrives at this encounter on an impressive ten-match unbeaten streak, including a recent victory over the Brazilians. The Samurai Blue are a resilient side, making the “Japan +1.5 Asian Handicap" an appealing prospect to avoid a heavy defeat.

Despite Japan’s current strong form, Brazil’s superior quality and extensive World Cup knockout experience should provide them with the decisive edge. Consequently, our main prediction is for a Brazil victory in this captivating contest.

Brazil x Japan
Tip	Tip	Best Odd
Double Chance & Over/Under	The match to not be a draw and have over 2.5 goals	at BetMGM
Asian Handicap	Japan +1.5 Asian Handicap	at BetMGM

The odds mentioned were collected at the time of writing this prediction and are subject to change. Always check the bookmaker"s site for up-to-date information.

Best markets to bet on Brazil vs. Japan

Discover other interesting bets for Brazil vs. Japan below.

🔥 Total Goals - First Half: Over 0.5 - 1.38 at BetMGM

Both teams have shown significant attacking threat in the World Cup so far. Therefore, an open game is expected from the first whistle, making a goal in the first half a very plausible scenario.

🔥 Corners: Brazil - 1.51 at BetMGM

Brazil’s attacking style of play, which relies heavily on their wingers, tends to generate a high number of corners. As they are likely to control the game, this is another interesting market.

Where to watch Brazil vs. Japan?

Here is where to watch Brazil vs. Japan live:

• TV: UTV (Gbr), ITV 1 (Gbr), ITV X (Gbr), STV (Gbr), BBC One (Gbr)
• Streaming: STV Player (Gbr), BBC iPlayer (Gbr), BBC Sport app (Gbr), BBC Radio 5 Live (Gbr), BBC Sport (Gbr)

Brazil vs. Japan - Match details

Check out the match details:

• Match: Brazil vs. Japan
• Competition: World Cup 2026
• Date: 29/06/2026
• Kick-off: 6 PM (BST)
• Broadcast: ITV X (Gbr), ITV 1 (Gbr), BBC Sport app (Gbr), BBC Radio 5 Live (Gbr), BBC iPlayer (Gbr), UTV (Gbr), BBC One (Gbr), BBC Sport (Gbr), STV (Gbr), STV Player (Gbr)

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