Brazil vs Japan World Cup clash sparks controversy over provocative remarks
Ahead of their 2026 World Cup round of 16 match in Houston, Brazil captain Marquinhos responded to Japanese forward Kento Shiogai’s comments that "Brazil is not what it used to be." Marquinhos called the remarks arrogant and motivating, while emphasizing Brazil’s unity, defensive improvements under coach Ancelotti, and lessons from past upsets. Shiogai faced racist online abuse after his statement. Japan’s coach recalled a previous friendly win over Brazil. The match carries high stakes for both teams.
Cross-source coverage
Wire timeline
Japanese Striker Ken Shiobi Refuses to Retract Controversial Brazil Comments
Japanese national team striker Ken Shiobi, 21, told Japanese media Sports Nippon that he will not retract his previous remarks about Brazil, despite sparking major controversy. Before a World Cup match, Shiobi said of Neymar, 'He was strong before, but who knows how he is now,' and 'Isn't that the old Neymar? I think it should be fine now.' Brazilian captain Marquinhos called the comments 'arrogant,' and after Brazil's win, forward Cunha taunted Shiobi by showing five fingers for Brazil's five World Cup titles. Shiobi's Instagram was flooded with Brazilian fan messages. He said, 'After all, we lost. Whatever the outside noise is, it's everyone's freedom to say what they want. Even now, I don't intend to retract those statements. I just honestly said what was on my mind.' He also reflected that words without malice can be misunderstood. Some Japanese media had omitted his qualification that 'Brazil is still strong,' amplifying the backlash.
虎扑 - 足球Matheus Cunha taunts Japan's Kento Shiogai after Brazil World Cup win
Following Brazil's dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Japan in the 2026 World Cup round of 16, Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha first consoled Japanese players before specifically confronting Japan's Kento Shiogai. Cunha gestured by showing five fingers representing Brazil's five World Cup titles. This came after Shiogai had made pre-match comments questioning Brazil's current prestige, saying 'I haven't heard much about them lately' and claiming 'It's not the Neymar of before.' In the mixed zone, Cunha explained his actions, saying Shiogai showed 'a lack of knowledge about our national team' and 'it was good to put him in his place.' Cunha further posted on Instagram: 'You know a little more about us now. Never above anyone, but never below either.' The article notes Shiogai did not play in the match.
Home Football - actualitésMarquinhos credits Ancelotti's calmness for Brazil's comeback win against Japan
Brazil captain Marquinhos praised coach Carlo Ancelotti for providing calmness and confidence after Brazil came from behind to beat Japan 2-1 in the 2026 World Cup round of 32 in Houston. Marquinhos noted that the team controlled the first half but lacked chances, and improved in the second half with more aggression and attacks into space. He stressed that winning is the most important thing regardless of style. Brazil awaits the winner of Norway vs. Ivory Coast in the round of 16.
FútbolMarquinhos calls Japanese forward Shiogai's comment 'arrogant' ahead of World Cup clash
Brazilian national team captain Marquinhos responded to Japanese forward Kento Shiogai's comment that 'Brazil is no longer what it used to be,' calling the statement 'arrogant.' Speaking to 'Cazé TV,' the PSG defender said the remark serves as motivation for Brazil and that the team will show its strength in the upcoming round-of-16 World Cup match in Houston. Marquinhos emphasized his team's humility and hard work over the past month in the United States, asserting that Brazil remains a great team capable of winning. The exchange occurred ahead of the Brazil vs. Japan match in the 2026 World Cup.
FútbolJapanese Striker's Criticism of Brazil Ignites World Cup Match Controversy
Ahead of a crucial 2026 World Cup group stage match between Brazil and Japan, Japanese striker Kento Shiogai of Wolfsburg made provocative statements to national media, suggesting Brazil is no longer a top team compared to France and Argentina, and that Neymar's prime is past. The comments sparked outrage among Brazilian fans, leading to over 25,000 comments on Shiogai's Instagram, including racist and xenophobic remarks identified by Brazilian media outlet O Globo. Brazil's coach Carlo Ancelotti declined to engage, focusing on match preparation, while captain Marquinhos welcomed the comments as motivation for the team. The winner of the match will secure a spot in the round of 16.
FútbolJapanese Striker Kento Shiogai Targeted by Racist Comments After Criticizing Neymar and Brazil
Japanese striker Kento Shiogai, who plays for Wolfsburg, sparked outrage among Brazilian fans after stating in an interview that Brazil and its star Neymar are no longer as strong as before, noting that France and Argentina are currently more impressive. His remarks, made ahead of a 2026 World Cup round of 16 match between Brazil and Japan, led to a flood of over 25,000 comments on his latest Instagram post, many of which were identified by Brazilian media O Globo as racist and xenophobic attacks targeting Asian populations. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti declined to engage with the controversy, focusing instead on the match. Captain Marquinhos suggested the comments could serve as motivation. The article notes that despite finishing top of their group, Brazil has not won the World Cup in 24 years, while Japan has only one defeat in twelve matches this season, including a 3-2 victory over Brazil.
Home Football - actualitésJapanese player's pre-match comments cause uproar in Brazil camp
Ahead of the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 match between Brazil and Japan, Japanese forward Kento Shiogai made provocative comments stating that 'Brazil is not what it used to be,' suggesting France and Argentina are now stronger and that Brazil lacks a player of Neymar's former caliber. The remarks sparked widespread reaction in Brazilian media and within the Seleção squad. Brazil captain Marquinhos responded firmly, calling the comments arrogant and stating they would motivate his team. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti declined to engage in the controversy, focusing on match preparation. Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu recalled Japan's historic friendly victory over Brazil the previous year, expressing confidence in his team's chances. The match is scheduled for Monday evening.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertMarquinhos Responds to Japan Forward's Claim That Brazil Is Not What It Used to Be
Brazil national team captain Marquinhos responded to Japanese forward Shiozawa Kento's comments that 'Brazil is not the Brazil of the past anymore' ahead of their 2026 World Cup knockout stage match in Houston. Marquinhos stated that such remarks only motivate Brazil, calling them 'a bit arrogant.' He emphasized Brazil's strength and experience, while also recalling lessons from past upsets, including Brazil's elimination by Croatia in the previous World Cup and his club PSG's loss to Botafogo in the Club World Cup. Marquinhos stressed the need for humility, focus, and respect for Japan as a strong opponent. Shiozawa, a substitute who played only once in the tournament, made the comments to Kyodo News. The match is set for Monday in Houston.
虎扑 - 足球Brazil Captain Marquinhos: Team More United Despite Not Being Favorites This World Cup
Brazil captain Marquinhos addressed the media ahead of the World Cup round of 16 match against Japan. He acknowledged that Brazil may not be seen as strong favorites compared to previous tournaments but emphasized the team's unity and improvement. Marquinhos noted that coach Ancelotti's tactical adjustments have improved the team's compactness and defensive solidity, resulting in consecutive clean sheets. He highlighted the importance of mental strength and confidence, saying the team is building form at the right time. He also praised the energy of fans, calling it the strongest he has experienced across three World Cups. Marquinhos stressed that while the start was not perfect, the team aims to finish stronger and advance step by step, with full focus on the upcoming knockout match.
虎扑 - 足球Brazil captain Marquinhos expresses confidence ahead of World Cup round of 16 match against Japan
On the eve of Brazil's round of 16 match against Japan at the World Cup, Brazilian captain Marquinhos expressed confidence in his team's progress. In an interview with L'Équipe, he reflected on a 2-3 loss to Japan last October, calling it a learning experience. Marquinhos noted that Brazil has evolved collectively and improved with each group stage match. He emphasized the importance of defensive solidity, stating that if Brazil can keep clean sheets, they will be close to qualification. Marquinhos praised coach Carlo Ancelotti for improving the team's positioning and compactness. He acknowledged Japan's strong group stage performances but stressed respect for Brazil's own work and history. Marquinhos also referenced past World Cup disappointments (elimination by Croatia) and a PSG loss to Botafogo to keep the team grounded, saying 'the mountain we want to climb is very high' and that the team is going step by step with confidence.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continu