Brazil were the clear favourites and delivered a controlled if not always convincing performance. Their 4-2-3-1 gave Vinícius Júnior the freedom to roam as a central striker, supported by Neymar and Raphinha in the three behind — a fluid, interchangeable front line that Japan's depleted midfield struggled to track. The double pivot of Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães was essential in recycling possession and protecting the back four, though Casemiro's early booking forced him into a more conservative second half. Japan's 4-3-3 mid-block was disciplined and compact, and the absence of Itakura and Endō was partially offset by Watanabe and Ao Tanaka's diligence. Their equaliser was a genuine moment of quality, and they will feel hard done by the penalty decision. Ultimately, individual brilliance — Vinícius and Neymar — was the difference. Brazil's squad depth and technical superiority proved decisive, but Japan's organisation and set-piece threat will concern any future opponent they face.

• Japan were without both Kō Itakura (CB) and Wataru Endō (DM) through suspension — a combined 120+ caps of experience absent from their spine.
• Vinícius Júnior created or scored both Brazilian goals, registering a goal and an assist — his 4th direct goal contribution in 3 World Cup 2026 matches.
• Ritsu Dōan's free-kick was Japan's 3rd set-piece goal of the tournament, underlining their dead-ball threat even against elite opposition.
• Neymar converted his 2nd penalty of the tournament; his composure under pressure belied the fitness concerns that surrounded his Santos comeback.
• Brazil's xG (2.41) vs Japan's (1.12) reflects a game Brazil controlled in spells but never fully dominated — Japan's low block forced 11 of Brazil's 18 shots from outside the box.
• Alisson's 88th-minute save from Kamada was the defining moment that sealed Brazil's passage — his 4th save of the match.