Japan Could Upset Brazil in 2026 World Cup, Says Minamino

Japan star Takumi Minamino said the team could shock Brazil in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match in Houston by adopting an underdog mentality.

The Samurai Blue aim to repeat their historic 3‑2 comeback win over Brazil in an international friendly.

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He said that playing without the pressure of being favorites would give Japan an advantage to pull off an upset.

“If we play with the underdog mentality, as we always have, I believe we have the ability to make something happen in these one‑off games.”

Speaking to reporters on Friday at Japan’s training base near Nashville, Tennessee, Minamino said attacker Takefusa Kubo could contribute after recovering from a knee injury.

“He is especially spirited, so he needs no encouragement from me,” Minamino said, according to Kyodo News.

“Everyone believes we will welcome him back in the knockout stage, and he is rehabbing with that same belief.”

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Japan advanced to the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup, finishing as runners‑up in Group F with one win and two draws.

After a 4‑0 victory over Tunisia and a 2‑2 draw with the Netherlands, they secured a knockout spot with a 1‑1 draw against Sweden, and will face Brazil.