The goals, minute by minute
- 29'Kaishu SanoGoal · 0-1
- 56'CasemiroGoal · 1-1
- 90'+5'Gabriel MartinelliGoal · 2-1
The preview
Written before the match. We've left it as it was, even where the game said otherwise.
Context
Brazil (1st Group C) vs Japan (2nd Group F) · knockout
Level of the teams
Brazil: title contender, a star-studded squad (Vinícius, Rodrygo, Raphinha).
Superior in individual talent.
Japan: intense, fast and very organized, Asia's highest-ranked side. Can
trouble with its dynamism.
Key factors
- Brazil superior in pedigree and individual flair.
- Japan is physical, disciplined and dangerous in transition.
- Brazil is the favorite, but Japan is no easy opponent.
Prediction
Result in 90': 2-0 Brazil (alternative: 2-1 Brazil)
- Brazil win: ~62%
- Draw: ~23%
- Japan win: ~15%
Advances: Brazil (~75%)
Player to watch: Vinícius Júnior, Brazil's threat down the left.
Final verdict, Confidence: medium-high
Brazil is superior and a clear favorite, though Japan can make it tricky with
sharp transitions. A Brazilian progression is the most likely scenario.