Here’s the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-06-29 00:16:00.
HOUSTON — In a pivotal round-of-32 clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Japan will face Brazil without key playmaker Takefusa Kubo for the third consecutive match. This encounter is crucial for Japan, as they aim to pull off a remarkable upset.
Japan’s coach, Hajime Moriyasu, remains hopeful despite Kubo’s absence, believing his squad can make history against the Brazilian giants. Kubo has missed the last two matches after being substituted during Japan’s opening 2-2 draw with the Netherlands. He has been focused on an individual training regimen at the team’s base in Nashville.
During a media-accessible training session on Sunday, Kubo appeared to struggle while engaging in agility drills, indicating his fitness concerns. Moriyasu confirmed that Kubo would not be participating in the upcoming match, expressing wishes for Kubo’s swift recovery.
“He’s still only doing individual running and training,” Moriyasu said. “We really wish for him to recover swiftly, and he wishes it too.”
Moriyasu acknowledged the high stakes of the upcoming game, emphasizing the challenge posed by Brazil, who are currently ranked as the top team in the world. Japan, meanwhile, has often been viewed as underdogs, though their aspirations of winning the World Cup this year remain strong.
“We are aiming to win the World Cup but we haven’t been at that level before,” Moriyasu remarked. He remains undeterred by Japan’s lower ranking, stating, “Every new occasion gives us the possibility to believe.
He also addressed Brazil’s formidable reputation, stating, “Brazil are always a leading team… Some people will say Japan are underdogs. We will play with that in mind.” He recalled previous matches, including a friendly victory last year that had few giving Japan a chance to win.
Moriyasu is aware of the possibility that the match might go to penalties, especially recalling Japan’s heartbreaking elimination by Croatia in the 2022 shootout. He’s prepared to take charge of decisions should that scenario arise this time, stating, “I will decide the order of the kickers.”
If Japan manages to defeat Brazil, they will meet the winner of the Ivory Coast-Norway match on July 5 at New York New Jersey Stadium.
FAQs
Will Takefusa Kubo play against Brazil?
No, Kubo is ruled out for the match due to an ongoing injury.
What does Japan need to do to win?
Japan aims to leverage teamwork and capitalize on Brazil’s vulnerabilities to secure a historic victory.
Key Facts
- Category:
- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-06-29 00:16:00
Follow live coverage on the FIFA World Cup 2026 right here as the tournament continues.
Tags: #Takefusa #Kubo #Brazil #Japan #eager #change #history #World #Cup
Tags: #Takefusa #Kubo #Brazil #Japan #eager #change #history #World #Cup
