World Cup 2026: Why I mocked Japan’s Kento Shiogai after 2-1 win – Brazil star, Cunha

Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha has said that he mocked Japan’s Kento Shiogai with a “five-star” remark following the latter’s statements regarding his national team.

The Selecao have won the World Cup on five occasions — in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002.

They have produced a remarkable array of legendary footballers, including icons such as Pele, Neymar, Ronaldo Nazario, Ronaldinho, and Romario, among many others.

Despite their illustrious history, the South American powerhouses have struggled to perform at recent tournaments.

They failed to advance beyond the quarter-finals in four of the last five competitions (2006, 2010, 2018, and 2022). The only time they reached the semi-finals, in 2014, they suffered the humiliation of a 7-1 defeat to Germany.

Prior to the Round of 32 match between Brazil and Japan, Shiogai asserted that the South American giants are no longer the formidable team they once were.

The 21-year-old, who made a single appearance off the bench for the Samurai Blue during the group stage, stated (via Sportskeeda, h/t @poptime on X): “Brazil used to be a powerhouse, but what about now? I haven’t heard much about them these days… I think only France and Argentina are strong.”

Brazilian coach Carlo Ancelotti’s team subsequently triumphed over Japan 2-1, with Cunha starting and playing for 66 minutes. During the match, he was seen displaying five fingers and making a “calm down” gesture.

After the match, the Manchester United player commented (via @FabrizioRomano on X): “I have nothing against Japan; they are a great team, but he made some remarks about Brazil that we cannot accept. It is about respect for us and our jersey.”

With stars like Cunha, Vinicius Jr, Bruno Guimaraes, and Marquinhos leading the way, Brazil aim to secure a sixth star on their jersey at the 2026 World Cup.

World Cup 2026: Why I mocked Japan’s Kento Shiogai after 2-1 win – Brazil star, Cunha

World Cup: Why Neymar took a dig at Joachim Klement after Brazil’s win over Japan

Brazilian star, Neymar took a swipe at Joachim Klement on social media at Brazil’s 2-1 win over Japan in the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup.

Klement is a German economist renowned for his precise predictions, which successfully predicted the last three World Cup champions: Germany in 2014, France in 2018, and Argentina in 2022.

Initially, Klement stated that the purpose of his exercise was to demonstrate to economists that they are unable to accurately predict events about which they possess limited knowledge.

Prior to the commencement of the 2026 World Cup, Klement forecasted an unexpected victory for Japan over Brazil in the second round, while also asserting that the Netherlands would claim the championship in North America.

After the first half, it seemed as though Klement’s prediction might materialize, as the Samurai Blue maintained a 1-0 advantage. However, Brazil equalized through Casemiro before the hour mark. Although extra time appeared imminent, Gabriel Martinelli dashed Japan’s hopes with mere seconds remaining before the final whistle, propelling Brazil into the Round of 16.

Brazil’s triumph over Japan indicated that Klement’s prediction was incorrect. Neymar, who aspires to secure his first trophy with the Seleção, took the opportunity to remind everyone of the economist’s miscalculation.

On his official X account, the Santos forward stated, “Mr. Joachim Klement… please try harder at the next World Cup,” with a winking emoji.

Klement reiterated his prediction of Japan getting the better of Brazil in a recent interview with Fortune India. He stated that while Brazil hold a greater pedigree, their current crop of players are not at their best.

World Cup: Why Neymar took a dig at Joachim Klement after Brazil’s win over Japan

President Federation Cup: Dogo upbeat El-Kanemi Warriors will beat Ikorodu City in final

El-Kanemi Warriors technical adviser Kabiru Dogo has expressed his team’s readiness for the President Federation Cup final against Ikorodu City.

The Maiduguri club will face Ikorodu City in the final of the competition at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, on Saturday, 11 July, 2026.

Dogo’s side will be aiming to win their fourth title, while Ikorodu City will be making their maiden appearance in the final.

El-Kanemi started preparations for the crucial clash on Tuesday morning at the Police College Football Field in Maiduguri.

The gaffer is in buoyant mood ahead of the crucial fixture.

“We are going to Delta State with our heads held high. The cup is ours, In Sha Allah. We are going there with a mission, and by the grace of Allah, we will deliver. El-Kanemi Warriors will soon bounce back from the disappointment of relegation,” Dogo told the club’s media.

President Federation Cup: Dogo upbeat El-Kanemi Warriors will beat Ikorodu City in final

World Cup: Roy Keane makes U-turn on Casemiro after Brazil’s win over Japan

Former Manchester United captain, Roy Keane, has expressed both criticism and commendation for Casemiro following Brazil’s narrow victory over Japan in a thrilling World Cup round of 32 match.

Brazil, considered one of the leading contenders in the tournament, seemed to be on the brink of an unexpected early exit on Monday night after Kaishū Sano’s well-earned goal put Japan in the lead during the first half.

Casemiro, who recently departed from Manchester United after a mixed four-year stint, had a poor first half, receiving an early yellow card and being partly responsible for Sano’s goal.

During halftime on ITV, Keane was questioned about the perceived vulnerabilities in Brazil’s midfield and did not hesitate to share his views, stating, “A major concern throughout the tournament, and it has cost them.

“They made an error earlier in the match with the midfielders losing their positions, and Casemiro was already on a yellow card, which certainly impacts his decision-making regarding how to approach the goalscorer.

“They surrendered possession carelessly, but there is still a long way to go. This is what frustrates me; you see Casemiro’s initial movement is to step forward.

“He should be retreating, safeguarding the goal, and slowing the attacking player down. He is an experienced player, but having that experience is futile if he does not apply it.

“Kudos to the attacking midfielder, who was very impressive, but Casemiro almost directed him past him. He needed to remain goal-side. Just keep retreating, slow him down, and ensure there are numbers around you.

“Well deserved, a superb strike. However, from the perspective of Brazil’s midfield, it was far from adequate. I would be surprised if he returns for the second half.”

World Cup: Roy Keane makes U-turn on Casemiro after Brazil’s win over Japan

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