Neymar Named Substitute for Brazil's Knockout Match Against Japan
Brazil and Japan have announced their starting XIs for their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match in Houston, with star forward Neymar Jr once again beginning on the bench for the five-time champions. The match is scheduled for Monday, June 29, 2026.
Neymar was also an unused substitute for Brazil's final group-stage match against Scotland. However, the 34-year-old made his first appearance since 2023 when he came on as a substitute in the closing stages of Brazil's 3-0 win in their Group C fixture on Wednesday, June 24 (local time). He returned to action after recovering from a calf injury.
Neymar's Return After Long Injury Layoff
The appearance marked Neymar's first outing at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 and his first competitive appearance for Brazil since October 2023, when he suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. The injury kept him out of action for an extended period and limited his involvement in Brazil's qualification campaign.
The Brazilian winger replaced Matheus Cunha in the 76th minute against Scotland, making his fourth FIFA World Cup appearance. He has now featured in the 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026 editions of the tournament.
Brazil Starting Line-Up vs Japan
Brazil's starting line-up for their clash against Japan includes Alisson as the goalkeeper, with Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos (captain), Danilo and Douglas Santos in defence. Their midfield features Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes and Lucas Paqueta, while the attack includes Vinicius Junior, Matheus Cunha and Rayan.
Japan Starting Line-Up vs Brazil
Japan have named Zion Suzuki as goalkeeper, with Shogo Taniguchi, Hiroki Ito and Takehiro Tomiyasu forming the backline. Captain Ritsu Doan, Daizen Maeda, Keito Nakamura, Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada and Kaishu Sano comprise the midfield, while Ayase Ueda starts as the lone striker.
Brazil vs Japan Round of 32 Clash Line-Ups
Brazil: Alisson (GK), Gabriel Magalhães, Marquinhos, Danilo, Douglas Santos, Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Lucas Paqueta, Vinicius Junior, Matheus Cunha, Rayan
Japan: Zion Suzuki (GK), Shogo Taniguchi, Hiroki Ito, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Ritsu Doan, Daizen Maeda, Keito Nakamura, Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada, Kaishu Sano, Ayase Ueda
