THE LOWDOWN — THE FULL HISTORY
THE WALL
Japan have reached the last sixteen four times and gone out every time: beaten by Belgium in 2018 after leading 2-0, and by Croatia on penalties in 2022.
THIS JAPAN
They beat Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup, and eight months before this tie they beat Brazil for the first time.
THE GENERATION
Kubo, Mitoma and Kamada lead a side formed in European football.
THE TEST
Brazil now stand between Japan and a first quarter-final.
NOTE
Part of the World Cup Universe (WCU) 2026 narrative.
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THE TERRACES — DISCUSSION
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