Brazil enter knockout stage with Japan waiting

Knockout football starts today

Brazil face Japan in the World Cup round of 32 on Monday, kickoff 1:00 PM ET (1) (3) (4) (5). Winner goes to the round of 16. Loser goes home. Extra time and penalties if it is level after 90 minutes (1). Carlo Ancelotti has kept his lineup under wraps, testing Luiz Henrique and Rayan as options in Raphinha's absence. Neymar continues training at a high level after his calf issue, and the squad feels his return, whenever it comes, shifts the mood.

Dunga: Japan 'are talking too much'

Former Brazil captain Dunga did not hold back on the pre-match chatter coming from the Japan camp. "With all due respect to Japan, I think Japan are talking too much, right? It is not their characteristic, so that means there is respect and Brazil are very calm about it" (2). His words, not ours.

Mariani with the whistle

Italian referee Maurizio Mariani has been appointed for the match (4). No room for nerves. Every decision matters in a single-elimination tie.

Fan reactions

Confidence is running high among Brazil supporters heading into the round of 32. The prevailing view on r/worldcup is that Japan's chances are slim, especially with Asian confederation sides struggling, only two of eight AFC teams made it out of the group stage. One fan put it plainly: "Anything can happen in football, but personally, this game is a win for Brazil." Join the conversation on r/worldcup.