Japan is walking into Monday's World Cup last-32 clash against Brazil in Houston with a defiant message: they have what it takes to win. The team vowed to give "everything we've got," refusing to be intimidated by the five-time champions.
Japan's confidence stems from recent form. They notably defeated England at Wembley in their World Cup preparations, a result that has fueled belief in the squad. Coach and players alike are leaning on that performance as proof they can compete with—and beat—the world's elite.
A win would be historic. Brazil, historically dominant in the tournament, enters as a heavy favorite. Japan, however, sees the match as an opportunity rather than a mere survival test, viewing the underdog role as liberating.
If Japan advances, it would mark a significant milestone for the program and reshape the group's knockout-stage dynamics. The team is focused solely on Monday, knowing a loss ends their campaign.
"We can beat anyone on our day," a team representative said, citing the England victory as a template. Brazil, meanwhile, will be wary of a revenge-minded opponent eager to prove the result was no fluke.