Brazil vs Japan - World Cup

Season-defining implications hang over this World Cup clash at the home ground, where Brazil host Japan on June 29, 2026 knowing the result could shape the run-in for both clubs. How smooth can you be when receiving the ball, how quickly can you move from the back foot, hips open, face forward and find quality with the pass.

Both Brazil and Japan will be eager to build momentum when they meet in World Cup. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. Japan will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. Skinner had another year to run on his contract but has decided to move on a month out from United beginning their Women’s Super League season at London City Lionesses on September 4.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Brazil may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Japan have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. Everton are aware of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, but there has been no formal approach or contact with them, and they have no appetite to sell the 26-year-old, who has three years on his deal.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. In his latest Sky Sports column, Paul Merson says he would be worried by Roberto De Zerbi's post-match comments criticising Spurs' forward players and medical staff.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. More than just three points is on the line at the home ground — this is a fixture that could shape the narrative of both clubs' seasons. And Fonseca does not place too much weight on the decision of Roberto Martinez to omit him from the World Cup squad in favour of his Benfica team-mate Tomas Araujo.