Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti says he has no interest in engaging in mind games ahead of his sides World Cup last-32 meeting with Japan. The five-time world champions face Japan on Monday in one of the standout ties of the opening knockout round, with both teams arriving unbeaten from the group stage.Brazil topped Group C after drawing with Morocco before recording convincing victories over Haiti and Scotland, while Japan finished second in Group F after earning results against the Netherlands, Tunisia and Sweden.Japan have not tasted defeat since a loss to the United States in September and have since put together a 10-match unbeaten run that includes victories over England and Brazil.Despite suggestions from Japan forward Kento Shiogai that Brazil are no longer the force they once were, Ancelotti insisted his focus remains solely on preparing his team.I wont repeat what others say, Ancelotti told reporters.Were focused on the match, on the opponents qualities, on preparing well to avoid problems.Thats what match preparation is about. Were not doing what they call in England mind games. Were not going there.Table of ContentsJapan pose significant challengeNeymar available for bigger roleJapan pose significant challengeWhile Brazil entered the contest as favourites, Ancelotti acknowledged the threat posed by a Japan side that has consistently impressed over the past year.Ancelotti is expected to field a strong side as Brazil look to avoid an upset and continue their pursuit of a sixth World Cup title.The Italian coach has repeatedly stressed the importance of respecting every opponent, particularly in the knockout stages where a single mistake can end a campaign.Neymar available for bigger roleOne of the major positives for Brazil heading into the match is the return of Neymar.The Santos forward made his first appearance for the national team in more than three years during the victory over Scotland after recovering from a calf injury.Neymar had missed Brazils pre-tournament friendlies against Panama and Egypt, as well as the teams opening two World Cup matches, before returning as a substitute.Ancelotti believes the 34-year-old is now ready for a greater involvement.Neymar has progressed very well. I think he improved a lot last week, Ancelotti said.Its a shame he couldnt train the whole time he was with us.He can play more than 15 minutes. Hes in good shape. But it depends a lot on the game context and how things develop tomorrow. Topics Brazil National Football Team Carlo Ancelotti Japan National Football Team Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Neymar: World Cup 2026 playing schedule, fixtures, results, kick off times, confirmed injury news updates, full Brazil squad Ben Miller 29th June, 2026 Brazil v Japan World Cup 2026 line-ups, stats and preview, TV channel, live online stream and prediction Tom Rostance 28th June, 2026 World Cup 2026: Last 32 ties confirmed as group stage ends Tom Rostance 28th June, 2026 Sweden hero Elanga confesses World Cup confusion: I was just screaming Ben Miller 26th June, 2026 Japan 1-1 Sweden Both sides through after tepid draw Tom Rostance 26th June, 2026 Japan v Sweden: Teams confirmed for crunch match Tom Rostance 25th June, 2026
