World Cup 2026: Marquinhos Urges Brazil to Respect Japan

Brazil captain Marquinhos has urged his teammates not to underestimate Japan ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 encounter, insisting the Asian side has the quality to cause problems for any opponent.

Speaking before the knockout clash, the experienced defender said Brazil have put the group stage behind them and are fully focused on the challenges that come with elimination football.

He stressed that every mistake in the knockout rounds could prove costly, making preparation and concentration more important than ever.

Marquinhos recalled Brazil's previous defeat to Japan in an international friendly, describing it as a valuable lesson that exposed weaknesses within the team.

According to him, the experience helped the squad improve and contributed to their stronger performances at this year's tournament.

The Paris Saint-Germain centre-back explained that Brazil's coaching staff have carefully studied Japan's class of play and developed a tactical approach to reduce their attacking threat while allowing the Seleção to make the most of their own strengths.

He added that finishing top of their World Cup group was an important achievement, but insisted it would count for little if Brazil failed to deliver in the knockout stages. Marquinhos believes every match from this point forward should be approached like a final.

Brazil head into the Round of 32 as favourites, but the captain warned that Japan's discipline, organisation and fighting spirit make them dangerous opponents.

He called on his teammates to remain focused from the opening whistle and produce their best performance to secure a place in the next round.