After training on the 27th local time, Japan international Nagatomo spoke to Japanese media outlet Gekisaka.

On playing against Brazil

"My physical condition is at its peak. This is a match we cannot afford to lose; defeat means immediate elimination. While the team's competitive momentum is important, calmness and football intelligence are equally essential if we are to progress in the knockout stages."

"Compared to the development over the past one or two decades, I believe the overall standard of Japanese football has improved significantly. It's not that Brazil has stagnated, but rather that our progress has been greater. I keenly feel that we are infinitely close to this top Brazilian team. With our current strength, we have a genuine chance to defeat Brazil."

"When facing Brazil, and also carrying the pressure of elimination if we lose, it's easy to over-revere the opponent and even panic. At such times, it is even more crucial to remain calm. We shouldn't rely solely on passion; we need to stay composed and read the game, without being overly intimidated by Brazil, and bravely go all out."

"Brazilian players are very experienced in on-field tactics, full of cunning variations, with every movement aimed at deceiving the opponent. I feel this keenly when playing against South American teams like Brazil and Argentina: if we defend rigidly head-on, we can easily be caught out by spaces behind us. Against strong South American opponents, we must also learn to set tactical traps and contend with them."

On team recovery

"Physical recovery is certainly important, and fatigue from long-distance travel is inevitable, but training must balance intensity with rest. Our entire team has managed this very well, and we also need an opportunity to ignite everyone's fighting spirit. I plan to find the right moment to boost the team's morale."

"We will not stop at the Round of 16; that's absolutely impossible. We absolutely cannot stop here."

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