FIFA World Cup 2026 Prediction: Brazil vs Japan (29-06-2026)

Brazil enter the Round of 32 as favourites, but Japan have already shown throughout this tournament that they are capable of competing with elite opposition.

Considering the consistency of their recent performances, backing Japan with a one-goal handicap offers an appealing alternative to the match winner market.

If you’re following the FIFA World Cup knockout stage, Bet25 betting site provides an extensive range of football markets beyond standard match betting.

Alongside coverage of more than 40 sports, the sportsbook features live betting, player props, team totals and a wide selection of special tournament markets throughout the competition.

If you’re looking for more selections from the tournament, be sure to check our FIFA World Cup Game of the Day Tips, where we publish a fresh daily pick from the biggest matches of the competition.

Brazil have looked impressive in the group stage, beating Scotland 3-0 and Haiti 3-0 after opening the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Morocco.

Their attacking quality is obvious, but they have not won every game comfortably, with Morocco proving that disciplined opponents can limit their chances.

Japan have built one of the strongest unbeaten runs of the tournament.

They held the Netherlands to a 2-2 draw, defeated Tunisia 4-0 and then earned another point against Sweden.

Their form also extends beyond the FIFA World Cup, with victories over England, Scotland and Iceland in recent months.

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The gap in the FIFA rankings is not insignificant, with Brazil sixth and Japan eighteenth, but Japan have repeatedly shown they can compete with higher-ranked opponents.

They also beat Brazil 3-2 in a friendly last October, highlighting that this matchup may be closer than the odds suggest.

Brazil deserve to be favourites, yet Japan have been consistently organised, difficult to break down and dangerous going forward.

Even if Brazil edge the contest, a one-goal margin looks like one of the more realistic outcomes, making the +1 handicap an attractive option.