In Japan, there is a saying: “Softness overcomes hardness.” It comes from judo and means that, instead of meeting force with greater force, you can employ flexibility and technique to overcome an opponent who is more powerful than you. It also perfectly encompasses the approach that Japan will be taking in their FIFA World Cup 2026™
Having finished second in Group F, the Samurai Blue will be playing in the knockout stages for the third tournament in a row. However, they find their path blocked by Brazil. The kings of football have an unmatched five World Cup titles to their name, and their outstanding individual ability makes them a tricky proposition for any opponent.
This is precisely why Japan will need to lean into their organisation, discipline and well-drilled technique while waiting for an opening to pounce on.
In the previous senior meetings between the sides, Japan have won one, drawn two and lost 11. However, their sole win came less than a year ago in the Kirin Challenge Cup. The Asian side came back from two goals down to win 3-2, an achievement that makes the match more than just another friendly to Japanese fans and players. As left-winger Keito Nakamura explained at the time: “It’s a lot easier to win against an opponent you’ve beaten before than one you’ve never beaten”. This victory is one that is sure to give Japan real confidence as they clash on the biggest stage.
Ritsu Doan, who assisted his team’s opener against Sweden, added: “To play in this tournament is something I’ve dreamed of since I was a kid and going against a team I’ve always admired makes me truly happy. I’m going to give everything to help us win.” His words summarise the feelings of many, as Japan have now reached the stage where victory over this old foe is a genuine prospect.
When the J-League was initially founded, it was Brazilian legends such as Zico who came in and . Japan learned well from their South American visitors and have now developed into a side that regularly threatens the strongest teams in the world.
As the Samurai Blue seek to overcome their mentors, will it be the night when they put the theory of “softness overcomes hardness” into practice? Three decades ago, the world witnessed this same fixture in the same country, as the USA hosted the 1996 Olympic Games.
The match saw the Japanese Olympic team, led by coach Akira Nishino, overcome Brazil’s Dream Team, which featured the likes of Roberto Carlos and Rivaldo, by a 1-0 scoreline. Of course, the Olympics is a U-23 competition, making it a different prospect to a senior match. However, the 'Miracle of Miami' continues to be woven into Japan’s football history.
Thirty years on and back in the USA, they clash again in Houston. Will the next generation of Japanese players be talking about the Miracle of Houston? Or would it be seen not as a miracle, but as proof of their quality? One thing that is for sure is that it will be 90 minutes that no-one will want to miss.
Sources: FIFA Official
