The expanded 2026 World Cup format prompted fears that the tournament’s quality would be diluted. While the final round of group-stage matches did little to dispel those concerns, the last 32 promises a slate of heavyweight clashes.
Brazil and Japan will face off in a game that could be one of the most compelling of the World Cup. Both teams have demonstrated their quality in the matches they have played so far and have sights set on a deep run at the tournament.
