Brazil got their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign off to a flying start, beat Japan 2-1 in a well-deserved performance at NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas. The three-point haul launches them to the top of their group in a competition that has already proven unpredictable and compelling in equal measure. The 2026 edition — the first to feature 48 teams — is co-hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with 104 matches scheduled from 11 June to the final on 19 July. Brazil could not have asked for a better start to their journey.
This 3-goal contest featured some fine finishing, though scorer details are yet to be confirmed by official sources.
Brazil edged the territorial battle, finishing with 68.6% possession against their opponent's 31.4%. The shot count read 19 to 5 — Brazil showed greater menace in the final third but the numbers only tell part of the story.
Brazil top their group with a maximum haul of three points from the opening fixture. For Japan, the recovery work begins immediately — there is plenty of football still to play in a format that gives every team a genuine chance to qualify. The 68,777 crowd inside NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas played their part throughout.
With 48 teams making this the largest World Cup in history, the group stage alone delivers an extraordinary volume of high-stakes international football. The United States, Canada and Mexico have already produced unforgettable atmospheres — and there is plenty more to come.
