Brazil and Japan will define the game’s strategy in a pivotal round of 32 match of the FIFA World Cup, with Brazil playing a more stable game and Japan adopting a defensive approach. The choice of selectors indicates two different philosophies as they enter into a battle for survival in the knockout stage, which can be summed up as a contest between risk control and execution efficiency.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has kept the same XI he used in the last game of Group C to beat Scotland 3-0. This cohesion and attacking rhythm is the sign of confidence. A highlight is 19-year-old Rayan, who is getting his second opportunity after injury to Raphinha. He is in a strong attacking line-up, alongside Matheus Cunha and Vinícius Júnior, who are both a threat to play at pace and with direct drive.
Neymar, meanwhile, is on the bench, still recovering from a calf injury. He was not in the first 11, suggesting a careful reintegration program, not a quick handover.
Hajime Moriyasu has made four changes on Thursday, after a 1-1 draw against Sweden, for his side. The changes indicate an obvious tactical shift towards defense, at least in terms of how Japan is going to deal with the attacking depth that Brazil is able to offer.
Takehiro Tomiyasu and Shogo Taniguchi are key structural inclusions in the backline, while a midfield compactness should minimise transitional exposure. It’s a little more restrained when it comes to attacking creativity and Takefusa Kubo is sitting on the bench this game as a result of an ankle issue.
In terms of strategy, Brazil’s squad is unchanged with the emphasis on rhythm and attacking flow, while Japan’s new XI is built around containment and attacking counter-attack.
