Brazilian civil servants to take holiday for World Cup match; coach keeps an eye on Japanese goalkeeper

2026 World Cup Key News

(Taipei, June 1, 2026, CNA, Tokyo) The Brazilian and Japanese teams are set to face off in the Round of 32 of the World Cup. The entire nation of Brazil has entered a state of "national support," with even public offices granting special holidays. Brazilian head coach Ancelotti has also specifically mentioned that he is paying attention to the Japanese team's ace goalkeeper, Suzuki Ayaen.

The Japanese team will face five-time champions Brazil in the Round of 32 match early on June 2nd, Taipei time, and preparations are already underway in Brazil to cheer on the national players.

According to Japan's TV Asahi, a large crowd of tourists has gathered at Copacabana Beach in Brazil, where a giant outdoor viewing venue capable of accommodating 10,000 people has been set up on the bustling beach.

As the match is scheduled to kick off during the daytime on Monday in Brazil, the Brazilian government has specially granted holidays to public offices and other institutions, allowing all civil servants to cheer for the players.

A Brazilian fan interviewed said, "Brazil will definitely win! We'll win with a goal from Rayan!"

However, veteran journalist Costa, who has covered the Brazilian team for many years, holds a high level of vigilance towards the Japanese team. He believes, "Everyone knows that Japan is a formidable opponent for Brazil. The Japanese team is very fast and constantly changes formations. Head coach Ancelotti has definitely had the players watch many match analysis videos of the Japanese team."

Meanwhile, Japan's "Chunichi Sports" reported that at the pre-match press conference against Japan, Ancelotti was asked by reporters: "You have had a long coaching career, but your teams have never had Japanese players. If you had to choose one now, who would you want?"

He generously gave high praise: "The Japanese player I am watching is goalkeeper Suzuki Ayaen, who plays for the Italian Serie A team Parma Calcio 1913. He is performing exceptionally well. Since Parma is my hometown, I often hear about his excellent performance."

Ancelotti played for Parma during his playing career and participated in the 1990 Italy World Cup as an Italian international.

After transitioning to coaching, he managed prestigious clubs such as Chelsea in the English Premier League and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). In the summer of 2013, he took the helm at Real Madrid C.F. Until his departure last year, he led Real Madrid to numerous championship titles, including the UEFA Champions League (often abbreviated as UCL). (Compiled by Li Jing / Reviewed by Yang Weijing) 0601

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