Ancelotti calls Japan 'one of the world's best' ahead of Brazil World Cup clash

Brazil's national team coach Carlo Ancelotti has lauded Japan as a top-tier global competitor ahead of their crucial 2026 World Cup Round of 32 clash. The Italian manager stressed the importance of his squad maintaining absolute focus to secure a spot in the next round.

"It's a good experience to know that Japan is one of the best teams in the world," Ancelotti told reporters. "We respect them greatly and will prepare for this match as if it were a final, because for us, it is a final." He highlighted the distinct pressure of knockout stages, where a single mistake can end a team's tournament.

Ancelotti's caution is rooted in a past encounter where Brazil, despite leading, lost 2-3 to Japan in a friendly on October 14, 2025, due to defensive errors. This marked Japan's sole victory against Brazil in 14 meetings since 1989. The coach assured that his players understand the magnitude of the challenge and are concentrating on maintaining focus throughout the match.

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It's a good experience to know that Japan is one of the best teams in the world. We respect them greatly and will prepare for this match as if it were a final, because for us, it is a final.

Preparing for all eventualities, Ancelotti urged his team to be mentally strong and resilient, ready for potential extra time or a penalty shootout. "We need a strong mentality and a tough heart. We must be ready for anything that can happen in a knockout match, like extra time or penalties. This team is ready, motivated, and confident. However, every match in this tournament is very difficult," he stated.

Adding to the team's positive outlook, forward Neymar has shown significant progress in his injury recovery. After missing the initial group games, he made a late substitute appearance in Brazil's 3-0 win against Scotland. Brazil concluded the group stage as winners of Group C, extending their streak of topping their group in 12 consecutive World Cups.

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We need a strong mentality and a tough heart. We must be ready for anything that can happen in a knockout match, like extra time or penalties. This team is ready, motivated, and confident. However, every match in this tournament is very difficult.