Japan Lose Kubo for Brazil Clash as Moriyasu Refuses to Give Up H

Kubo injured his left knee during Japan's opening group-stage match against the Netherlands and has been sidelined ever since, missing the team's remaining two group fixtures.

Although the winger trained individually ahead of the Brazil match, Moriyasu said he is still not ready to return.

"He is still running and training on his own," Moriyasu told reporters. "He will not play against Brazil. We hope he will be back with the team as soon as possible."

Despite acknowledging Brazil's quality, Moriyasu insisted Japan will not be intimidated by the five-time world champions.

"Brazil are always one of the top teams and have a great chance of winning the World Cup," he said. "Many people will consider Japan the underdogs in this match, and we understand that. We will approach the game with that in mind."

Japan will also draw confidence from last year's friendly in Tokyo, where they stunned Brazil with a memorable victory.

"We will, of course, respect our opponents," Moriyasu added. "But before that match last year, nobody gave us much chance of winning either. We believe we can make history again."

Japan face Brazil later on Monday, aiming to produce another upset and secure a place in the Round of 16 despite the absence of one of their key attacking players.

MMR