Brazil vs Japan really is one of the standout ties in the Round of 32 at World Cup 2026.
The Monday night clash kicks off at prime time in the UK as well, which only enhances the appeal of this mouth-watering fixture between two sides ranked in FIFA’s top 20.
Brazil topped Group C with two wins and a draw, while Japan had to make do with second spot in Group F after accumulating five points against some tough opposition.
What a match we have in store at the Houston Stadium, and our full preview is available to view below, with sports betting tips and the latest World Cup odds.
And as the tournament progresses, even more markets will appear on our new-look Bet Boosts page, so keep your eyes peeled. Increase your potential winnings, and play your way this summer at NetBet!
Where can I watch Brazil vs Japan in the UK?
Brazil vs Japan will be broadcast live on TBC, with kick-off scheduled for 6pm UK time.
Brazil vs Japan Preview
Recent results
Brazil secured top spot in their group with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Scotland. The five-time World Cup winners were simply too good in Miami, with Vinicius Junior scoring twice and Matheus Cunha on the scoresheet once again. The Selecao drew 1-1 with Morocco in their opening fixture, before claiming a 3-0 triumph over Haiti.
Japan drew 1-1 with Sweden in the early hours of Friday morning, with Daizen Maeda’s second-half goal cancelled out by Anthony Elanga. Netherlands therefore pipped Samurai Blue to top spot in the group, with the Dutch being drawn against Morocco – another incredible tie on paper. Japan drew 2-2 with the Netherlands in their opening fixture and then thrashed Tunisia 4-0.
Head-to-head record
Brazil and Japan have met 10 times previously, with the South Americans winning seven of those matches – including a 4-1 victory at the 2006 World Cup.
However, the most recent meeting in October 2025 saw Japan claim their first-ever win over Brazil, a momentous 3-2 triumph after falling 2-0 behind.
Team news
Raphinha remains the big injury concern for Brazil and Carlo Ancelotti, with the Barcelona star’s hamstring issue meaning he is unlikely to feature again at this tournament. But the rest of the XI pretty much picks itself now, with Cunha and Rayan nailing down the two forward roles alongside Vinicius.
Takefusa Kubo and Ko Itakura are the major fitness doubts for Japan, but Hajime Moriyasu still has plenty of exciting players at his disposal – including the in-form Daichi Kamada of Crystal Palace.
Brazil vs Japan Odds
*All odds are subject to change
Brazil are big favourites to reach the Round of 16, priced at 1.69 to claim the win. A victory for Japan is at odds of 4.75, while the draw after 90 minutes is 3.67.
Brazil vs Japan Betting Tips
Both teams to score – Yes @ 1.93
These two sides know how to score goals, already tallying 14 between them at this World Cup. So BTTS looks a solid option as either a single or part of a combo, with two of the last three games between these sides seeing both teams find the back of the net. Japan scored at least one goal in their last 10 matches, while Brazil achievd the feat in their previous 11.
Total goals – Over 2.5 @ 2.00
Matches involving Brazil usually deliver goals – with six of the last seven seeing over 2.5 scored. Backing that trend to continue here would see you double your money.
Brazil first goalscorer – Vinicius Junior @ 4.00
Vinicius has lit up the World Cup so far, netting in all three games and tallying four goals overall. The Real Madrid star also struck first for Brazil in two of those matches, vs Morocco and Haiti respectively. So this could be a great route to higher profit from a goalscorer pick.
When you choose NetBet Sport, you can enjoy a whole range of top-quality sports and markets. Whatever you choose, always remember to bet responsibly. Here at NetBet, player wellbeing is our number one priority – check out our Responsible Gambling tips and tools page for more information. When the fun stops, stop.