Brazil captain Marquinhos has called on his teammates to show Japan total respect when the two sides meet in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 in Houston.

Speaking at the official pre-match press conference, Marquinhos pointed to Japan's 3-2 friendly victory over Brazil as a defining lesson that has shaped the Seleção's mentality heading into the knockout rounds.

"I think it was a learning experience for all of us. Everything we've gone through in recent years, up to this World Cup, has served as a lesson and a test for us," he said.

The Brazil captain acknowledged the difficulty of watching his side from the stands during that friendly defeat, admitting it fuelled his desire to contribute on the pitch. He insisted, however, that the team has evolved considerably since then.

"That match taught us a lot. Since then, we've grown a lot as a team, and we've shown it in the last matches of this World Cup. Today the situation is completely different: we're in the round of 32, and a new competition begins," Marquinhos added.

A new tournament from here

Marquinhos was emphatic that finishing top of Group C — Brazil's primary objective in the group stage — is now irrelevant. What matters, he stressed, is the challenge that lies ahead.

"The group stage is now behind us. Securing qualification and finishing first was our main goal, but from tomorrow a new tournament begins. In the knockout matches, the details will make the difference and we want to give our best on the pitch to play a great game," he said.

Brazil's preparation has included detailed analysis of Japan, with the captain noting that the coaching staff have identified strategies to neutralise Japan's strengths while maximising Brazil's own qualities.

Japan's impressive route to the last 32

Japan arrive in Houston having qualified for the knockout rounds of a World Cup for the third consecutive time. In Group F, they drew 2-2 with the Netherlands, thrashed Tunisia 4-0, and drew with Sweden to advance as runners-up — a campaign that underlines why Marquinhos is taking nothing for granted.