We won't give Brazil an inch: Japan coach ahead of knockout clash

Just hours remain before the high-voltage World Cup last-32 clash between Brazil and Japan. Ahead of the crucial encounter, Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu made it clear at a press conference on Sunday that his side is ready to challenge the five-time world champions.

"I truly believe we have the ability to write another fairytale by beating Brazil," Moriyasu said.

"We've played three group-stage matches and earned our place in the next round as a reward for our excellent performances. This is part of our consistent process. Honestly, the real World Cup starts now. The team has played great football so far, even though the matches were tough," he added.

"A very difficult opponent awaits us. To win this match, we must play our best football. Brazil may be five-time world champions, but we won't give them an inch; we are ready to challenge them to the fullest," he said.

Japan qualified for the knockout stage as runners-up from Group F. They drew 2-2 with the Netherlands, thrashed Tunisia 4-0 and drew 1-1 with Sweden to secure their last-32 berth.

Reminding the media of Japan's victory over Brazil in a friendly last year, Moriyasu said, "We played a friendly against Brazil last year and won. That was our last meeting. Although we've never beaten Brazil at the World Cup, our team has improved a lot."

"Last year's win has increased the pressure and expectations. But this Brazil side is different from the one we faced in that friendly. Both teams are motivated. I believe tonight's contest will be extremely exciting. We have the belief that we can win, as proven in that friendly. But this match will be much tougher."

On his team's World Cup ambitions, Moriyasu said, "Many may think we're just playing to perform well, but we firmly believe we can win this World Cup. We will respect our opponents, but we will fight with full confidence, just like last year. It's important that people see us as a team capable of beating the best in the world."