Brazil Captain Marquinhos Responds to Japan Forward's Comments Ahead of World Cup Clash

Ahead of the 2026 World Cup Round of 32 match between Brazil and Japan, Brazilian captain Marquinhos addressed remarks made by Japanese forward Kento Shiogai. Shiogai had suggested that Brazil is no longer as strong as in the past, noting that Neymar "is not the same player" and that "not much is heard about Brazil" recently. Marquinhos confirmed that these comments reached the Brazilian locker room and welcomed the motivation they provided. "It's good they keep talking to keep pushing us," Marquinhos said, emphasizing that the Brazilian team has been training humbly in the U.S. for a month. He added that football today is very balanced and that while the Japanese might be somewhat arrogant, Brazil remains a great team that must demonstrate its strength and quality. The winner of the Brazil-Japan match, scheduled for 20:00 on Sport1, will face the winner of Norway versus Ivory Coast in the Round of 16.