CORNERFLICK
Carlo Ancelotti has told Brazil to treat Japan with full respect ahead of their 2026 World Cup knockout tie, despite his side reaching the round of 16 as group winners.
The Brazil coach said his team may be considered strong for the game, but insisted Japan are organised, combative and highly competitive. He cited Brazil’s 3-2 friendly defeat to Japan in October 2025 as proof that the Asian side can cause problems.
Ancelotti added that knockout football leaves no room for recovery from mistakes, with every match carrying the weight of a final. He rejected the idea that Brazil have landed in an easier part of the bracket, saying no opponent can be taken lightly at this tournament.
He also gave an update on Neymar, saying the forward’s recovery has gone well. Even so, Ancelotti said the number of minutes Neymar plays will depend on how the match develops.