Ahead of one of the most intriguing matchups in the Round of 32, Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti shut down any potential trash talk, making it clear that his team won’t be engaging in any pre-match back-and-forth with Japan, even as subtle tension builds.
“We’re not doing what they call in England ‘mind games,’” Ancelotti said. “We’re focused on preparing well and avoiding problems.”
Japan has entered the matchup with growing confidence. The team is unbeaten in their last 10 matches and already owns a win over Brazil in Tokyo during that stretch. They also picked up a statement victory over England at Wembley, results that have helped reshape how this team is viewed on the global stage.
There’s been no heated exchange, no escalating comments, and no traditional pre-match trash talk between Brazil and Japan. But one remark did stand out. Japan forward Kento Shiogai recently hinted that Brazil are no longer the dominant force they once were. A subtle jab perhaps, but one that reflects that growing confidence.
While Ancelotti decided not to engage further in the conversation and has chosen to remain business-like, Brazil does have a wildcard that could help them out significantly.
Neymar made his long-awaited return in Brazil’s final group stage match, appearing for the first time in over three years. Even in limited minutes, he showed what he can still bring to the team.
According to Ancelotti, he’s ready for a bigger role.
“He can play more than 15 minutes. He’s in good shape,” the Brazil manager said.
Brazil remains the favorite...on paper. But this isn’t a typical heavyweight vs. underdog clash. Japan has momentum, belief, and recent results to back it up. Brazil has experience, talent, and now the added boost of Neymar’s return. And Ancelotti knows that in the end, the results will do all the talking.
