Brazil legend Zico has thrown his support behind his home nation but acknowledged that Japan are ready for any challenge as the two sides prepare to meet in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Brazilian icon, who played a pivotal role in developing Japanese football, said he would not be disappointed if Japan caused an upset.
Zico's Emotional Connection to Both Sides
In a post shared by Planeta do Futebol on X, Zico stated, "If Brazil wins (against Japan), great, because I'm Brazilian. But if they lose, I won't be sad, no, because in Japanese football there's a little foot of the Coimbra family there." Zico, who played for Kashima Antlers and is widely credited alongside his brother Eduardo "Edu" Antunes Coimbra for laying the foundations of modern professional football in Japan, believes the Asian side has developed into a formidable force.
Speaking to FIFA ahead of the knockout clash, the 73-year-old added, "I will be supporting Brazil. After all, I am Brazilian. But if Japan win, so be it. What I do know is that it will be a great match, because Japan play proper football."
Brazil's Path to the Round of 32
Brazil entered the contest buoyed by a 3-2 victory over Scotland that sealed their place in the Round of 32. Neymar made a successful return from injury, while Vinicius Jr and Matheus Cunha played key roles in the campaign. The Selecao are aiming for their sixth World Cup title and have looked strong in the group stage.
Japan's Knockout History and Ambitions
Japan finished second in Group F with one win and two draws, booking their knockout berth after a 1-1 draw against Sweden. The Samurai Blue are aiming to progress beyond the last 16 for the first time after reaching that stage in 2002, 2010, 2018 and 2022. They narrowly missed out on quarterfinal appearances in both 2018 and 2022 after losing to Belgium and Croatia, respectively — experiences Zico believes have strengthened the team's mentality.
"That is the World Cup for you. Japan are prepared to face anyone. Over the past few years, they have beaten Brazil, Germany, Spain and England. They really are ready for whatever comes their way," Zico concluded.
Only Second Meeting Between Brazil and Japan at World Cup
The meeting will be only the second between the two nations at a FIFA World Cup. Brazil won 4-1 in their previous encounter in Germany in 2006, when Zico was in charge of the Japanese national team. Recalling that emotionally charged evening, Zico said, "Of course, it was emotional (the match). I said to the players before the match that I was going to sing the Brazilian anthem before the game, just as I had been taught at school, but as soon as the first ball was kicked, I was with Japan all the way. I remember thinking about Didi, who won two World Cups with Brazil and coached Peru against the Selecao in 1970. But it was tough."
Japan's Rise in Global Football
Zico highlighted Japan's remarkable progress since making their World Cup debut in 1998, noting that the country's footballers now regularly feature in Europe's biggest leagues. "Japan are at a more competitive level now. Their players have been heading to Europe, just like Brazilian and South American players have. Of their 26 players at the World Cup, 23 play in Europe, and they're getting to play in the Bundesliga, in Serie A, in the Premier League," Zico said. "Of the three who play at home, two are goalkeepers, and the other is Yuto Nagatomo. He is there more as a leader and experienced figure within the squad. It's his fifth World Cup."
What's at Stake
Brazil enter as favorites but face a Japan side that has proven capable of beating top-tier teams. The knockout clash promises to be a test of both tactical discipline and emotional resilience. For Japan, advancing past the Round of 32 would mark a historic milestone, while Brazil seek to continue their march toward the title.
