what did japan say to brazil before the game

Japan’s main pre-game message was basically confidence, not trash talk: striker Shiogai said Brazil’s Neymar was “the old Neymar” and suggested Japan were in good shape now. He also downplayed Brazil’s current reputation, saying he had not heard much about them lately.

What was said

• Shiogai on Neymar: “That was the old Neymar, right? It’s not the old Neymar anymore. I think we’re in good shape now.”

• On Brazil as a team: “It used to be strong, but what about now? … About Brazil, I haven’t heard much lately.”

Context

The comments came ahead of Brazil’s World Cup knockout match with Japan and helped fuel a fiery buildup. Japan’s coach Hajime Moriyasu also struck a more respectful tone, saying his team had proved they were not a pushover and that Brazil was still a top side.

TL;DR

Japan’s message before the game was: we respect Brazil, but we think this version of Japan can win.