Japan's Messi Ruled Out for Brazil Clash

Japan's hopes in the World Cup face a setback as star winger Takefusa Kubo has been ruled out of their round of 32 match against Brazil. Kubo sustained a meniscus tear in his left knee during Japan's opening tournament match on June 14. He subsequently missed the team's remaining group stage games while undergoing rehabilitation.

Despite the absence of their key player, nicknamed 'the Japanese Messi,' Japan secured advancement to the knockout stages by finishing second in Group F. Coach Hajime Moriyasu confirmed Kubo's unavailability for the Brazil game, stating he is still undergoing individual training. Moriyasu acknowledged Brazil as a formidable opponent but expressed the team's determination to play with the underdog mindset and potentially make history.